In commemoration of Louis Riel Day, the Thames Bluewater Metis Council in collaboration with the City of London decided to raise the Metis flag.
Gloria Thompson is a Metis woman who attended the flag raising and says she is feels immense honour of her heritage.
“I’m very proud to be a Metis woman. I’m also very proud to have someone like Riel. He was a real warrior and I think we all like to know where we come from,” added Thompson.
Louis Riel Day can be observed in Ontario on Nov. 16. The day is used to recognize and advance the legacy of Riel who faught for the rights of Metis.
Cindy Shails is a Metis woman who attended the flag raising and says she is grateful for political figures like Riel.
“To some people he was a rebel and to some people he was a traitor. As far as I’m concerned, he was a hero who fought for all the people out west, including my grandparents,” said Shails.
The Metis flag can be observed on the left side of City Hall’s main entrance.
