Originally published in the Canstar Metro/ Headliner July 27, 2020
By Myrna Driedger
Manitoba has been a province for 150 years. That’s 150 years of amazing history and interwoven stories among people.
Our history is rich and interesting. As you may know, this year was meant to be lit up by Manitoba 150 celebrations. While many of those celebrations have been postponed, I know that Manitobans understand. Manitobans are incredibly resilient and together, we have flattened the curve. Great work.
Premier Brian Pallister, Lt.-Gov. Janice Filmon and Myrna Driedger, Roblin MLA and Speak of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, recently unveiled and installed a time capsule at the Legislature to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Legislative Building. The capsule will be opened in 2020.
Fortunately, we were recently able to hold one significant celebration —our building rededication and the unveiling and installation of a time capsule. Guests gathered outside on the grounds of the Manitoba Legislature and ensured that the proper health measures were respected.
I hosted this event at the Louis Riel statue on the grounds of the Legislative Building. It was a beautiful ceremony in honour of the 100th birthday of the building and the 150th anniversary of Manitoba being a province.
Together, the lieutenant governor, the premier, elder Margaret Roscelli of the Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, Paulette Duguay, the great grand-niece of Louis Riel, and I all spoke to the significance of our history and this important sesquicentennial milestone.
I was proud to unveil the beautiful time capsule that will be opened 100 years from now.
What will people then think of our time? What will be different and what will be the same?
I carefully curated this time capsule and considered this an important responsibility. These are the items that will reflect our time 100 years from now.
The capsule itself is a work of art. Created by local artist Darren Sakwi, it features depictions of the Red and Assiniboine rivers. There are 75 items inside the capsule, including: a soapstone carving; a Metis sash; a beaded tobacco pouch; a 2019 Louis Riel proof silver dollar; a beaded Winnipeg Jets medallion donated by Kevin Chief and the Winnipeg Aboriginal Sport Achievement Centre; letters from the leaders of each of Manitoba’s major political parties; a Manitoba flag; a map of Manitoba; information on the COVID-19 pandemic; a cell phone; a mystery item that will not be revealed until the capsule is opened in 2120.
These are just a few of the many items included that I think represent our time. I wish I could see the faces and hear the opinions of those who open this capsule in 2120.
Our province will continue to grow and progress over the next century, however one thing will remain the same — the spirit of Manitoba will continue to be resilient and strong.