THUNDER BAY – 127 years ago today a man was hanged for treason in Regina Saskatchewan by the North West Mounted Police (NWMP). A man portrayed as treasonous man. This so called act of treason was actually him defending the rights of the Metis. Louis Riel was a politician, a scholar and a leader; who has encouraged and empowered a people to assert themselves. He helped established the Provisional Government of Red River Colony.
Thomas Scott was captured 17 February 1870 and was tried by a Métis tribunal on 3 March 1870 for insubordination and rebellion against the provisional government. He was condemmed to death and invoked a action from the MacDonald Government of Canada, who sent the Canadian Militia in 1884.
A battle ensued in Batoche, Saskatchewan. Unable to convince a multitude of First Nations to fight along side him the rebellion continued until May 12, 1885. Riel turned himself into the NWMP. He was tried and found guilty of treason and sentenced to death.
Today to mark the day of his sacrifice, it is Louis Riel Day in Ontario. Let us remember and honor the work and life of Louis Riel.
Raven Linklater
