Official Statement from Minister Shawn Nault on the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion

July 17, 2026

A century of service is a profound milestone. Since its inception on this day in 1926, the Royal Canadian Legion has preserved the sacred duty of remembrance, supporting those who served and ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

As a Veteran, I know firsthand what the Legion represents. For generations of service members, walking through the doors of a local branch has meant finding a place of camaraderie, shared understanding, and support. Since the national Legion organization was first founded right here in Winnipeg a century ago, these spaces have been vital connection points for those who served. Our Red River Métis Citizens have a long, proud history of stepping forward as protectors, and many of our heroes have shared deeply in that Veteran bond.

True remembrance, however, requires an honest look at our collective past. For many decades following the World Wars, the relationship between our Veterans and the Legion carried challenges, as our Red River Métis heroes did not always find a welcoming environment within mainstream Legion branches or receive the recognition and services they were promised upon enlistment.

In true Red River Métis fashion, our people met those challenges with resilience and action. This led to the historic charter of the St. Laurent Legion Branch #250. Today, this stands proud as the only Métis Legion in Canada, creating a dedicated home where our culture and military contributions are celebrated hand-in-hand. This achievement highlights the renewed relationship between our people and the Legion, identifying deeply shared values, including a sacred commitment to honoring our protectors, caring for our families, and ensuring that no Veteran is left behind.

Today, we stand in a new era. Our growing collaboration with the Royal Canadian Legion represents a meaningful evolution - a partnership anchored in mutual respect and historical clarity. As the Red River Métis Veterans Department prepares to host a centennial celebration next week at the Royal Canadian Legion Henderson Highway Branch #215, we are bridging the past and the present, ensuring that the distinct story of the Red River Métis is permanently woven into the legacy of the Legion.

As the Royal Canadian Legion embarks on its next century, we look forward to walking alongside them in the spirit of truth, healing, and reconciliation, keeping the torch lit and held proudly in honour of those who have served.

In honour and remembrance,

Marsii.

Minister Shawn Nault

Minister for the Red River Métis Veterans Department, Manitoba Métis Federation, National Government of the Red River Métis.

 

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