Louis Riel portrait updated to recognize Métis leader as first premier of Manitoba – The Reminder

Feb 19, 2024

WINNIPEG — A portrait of Louis Riel hanging in the provincial legislature now recognizes the Métis leader as Manitoba’s first premier.

Premier Wab Kinew and Manitoba Métis Federation President David Chartrand unveiled the updated plaque below the portrait on Monday, which is recognized as Louis Riel Day in the province.

Riel led a provisional government in what is now Manitoba and blazed the trail for the province to join Confederation in 1870.

The Riel portrait has been on the walls of the legislative building for many years but the plaque designated Riel as president.

Kinew’s first legislation, introduced after the NDP government came to power last year, was to recognize Riel’s role as the first premier.

Read More: https://www.thereminder.ca/provincial-news/louis-riel-portrait-updated-to-recognize-metis-leader-as-first-premier-of-manitoba-8327135