The annual flag-raising ceremony recognizing both Métis Week and Louis Riel Day will be held in Campbell River's Spirit Square on Nov. 13.
Next month, during Métis Week, Métis people across Canada honour the history and culture of the Métis Nation, as well as the historic legacy of Louis Riel.
Jackie Lever, executive director of North Island Métis, said while the week celebrates Louis Riel and is special to the Métis Nation, it also serves as a platform for Métis people to assert who they are and advocate for the preservation of their culture and communities.
"It's a celebration of who we are as Métis people, knowing our history, and despite attempts to remove us from who we are as a community and to extinguish our culture," Lever said. "They did not succeed. We still are here, and we're growing strong again. We're growing that cultural knowledge and nurturing our community to become strong again and proud of who they are."
Council agreed on Oct. 24 to fly the Métis Nation’s flag following a request from the North Island Métis community. It's an annual event that has taken place for about 10 years, Lever said.
The Métis flag, also known as the flag of the Métis Nation, features a white infinity symbol set against a blue backdrop. This infinity symbol signifies the mixing of two unique cultures — European and First Nations — to create in the distinct and vibrant culture of the Métis people.
The flag-raising ceremony, which kicks off the start of Métis Week, is taking place at 11 a.m. on Nov. 13. Louis Riel Day is celebrated on Nov. 16.