In this, the overdue era of reconciliation between Canadians and Indigenous Canada, the events that took place in a Regina courtroom on this date in 1885 are so very important to recall. Métis leader Louis Riel, charged with treason arising out of the Northwest Rebellion, addressed the jury about to consider his case. As we know, the jury was to convict him but asked he been granted mercy. The foreman of the jury, in fact, cried as he reported the verdict. This was rejected by the Court and also by the government of Sir John A. Macdonald in the weeks that followed. Louis Riel would be hanged. Readers will find Riel’s address to his jury below. Before reading it, however, I’d suggest you read more on Louis Riel first if you are not well-versed in the history of this crucially important figure in our early post-Confederation history. One good source is available thank to the good folks at the Canadian Encyclopedia. It can be found at https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/louis-riel[caption id="attachment_629592" align="alignnone" width="775"] Louis Riel’s address to the jury[/caption]HIS HONOR: Prisoner, have you any remarks to make to the jury, if so, now is your time to speak?
- LEMIEUX: May it please your Honors. At a former stage of the trial, you will remember that the prisoner wished to cross-examine the witnesses, we objected at the time, thinking that it was better for the interest of the prisoner that we should do so. The prisoner at this stage is entitled to make any statement he likes to the jury and he has been so warned by your Honor, but I must declare before the court that we must not be considered responsible for any declaration he may make.