File photo.
Metis Flags will fly across several Saskatchewan Polytechnic campuses on Wednesday in memory of Louis Riel.
The flag raising marks Louis Riel Memorial Day, a day where people across Canada are reminded of the significant impact the Metis leader had on the history of Canada.
“It is important to recognize this historic, Canadian day,” says Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Director of Aboriginal Strategy Jason Seright. “Raising the Metis flag for Louis Riel Memorial day is an important part of Indigenization at Sask. Polytech.”
According to Seright enrollment for Aboriginal students at Sask. Polytechnic has increased 31 per cent since 2011. There are currently 3,700 self identifying Indigenous students attending campuses across the province.
Seright says the flag raising is a simple way to show these students that they are welcome at Sask. Polytechnic.
“It is important to make those students feel like they belong on our campuses and are an important part of our community,” he says.
The Metis flag will be raised on Campuses in Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Regina and Moose Jaw. Some of the events will feature guest speakers and presentations.
A Metis Flag will also been flown at Parliament Hill in Ottawa in recognition of the historic Metis leader.