Original article published by the City of Toronto: http://wx.toronto.ca/inter/it/newsrel.nsf/bydate/E3D3267797554E0B85257C240052741D
Riel Day flag raising ceremony at Toronto City Hall. (Left to right)
MNO Toronto Métis Council President Robert Bird, City of Toronto
Councillor Mike Layton, MNO Senator Joseph Piotras and MNO
Chair France Picotte.
At a ceremony and flag raising on November 15, the City of Toronto honoured the contributions of Louis Riel and the Métis people to the development of Canada.
Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Senator Joseph Piotras provided the opening blessing at the event. Councillor Mike Layton (Ward 19 Trinity-Spadina), Chair of the Aboriginal Affairs Committee, brought greetings and read the proclamation, followed by remarks from MNO Chair France Picotte. MNO Toronto Métis Council President Robert Bird and youth representative Christine Skura also spoke.
“Louis Riel Day is an important reminder of the contribution of Riel to the Métis people and to the development of Canada,” said Councillor Layton. “This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the historic Supreme Court decision that ensured Métis rights in Ontario are protected under the Constitution. There is still work to be done to achieve Riel’s vision. The City of Toronto continues to build strong working relationships with Aboriginal communities and partnerships for the development of successful programs and policies.”