Facebook: The Honorable Murray Sinclair
The former Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Indian Residential Schools died this morning (Mon) at the age of 73. The Honourable Murray Sinclair was also Manitoba’s first Indigenous judge and he was a senator from 2016 to 2021.
A statement from his family says he committed his life in service to the people: creating change, revealing truth, and leading with fairness throughout his career. “The impact of our dad’s work reached far across the country and the world. From Residential School Survivors, to law students, to those who sat across from him in a courtroom, he was always known as an exceptional listener who treated everyone with dignity and respect.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says in a statement that Sinclair leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. “With his passing, Canada has lost a giant – a brilliant legal mind, a champion of Indigenous rights and a trusted leader on our journey of reconciliation.” On behalf of the federal government he extends deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and to Indigenous Peoples across Canada. Trudeau adds, “After years of investigative efforts under Mr. Sinclair’s leadership, the TRC’s report, including its 94 Calls to Action, gave a voice to Survivors which will always be reflected in its pages and part of our country’s history. To this day, the report guides our collective journey toward a fairer, more equitable future with Indigenous Peoples. It would not have been possible without Mr. Sinclair’s critical work and guidance.”
Premier Scott Moe posted on social media about the passing of Murray Sinclair, saying, “As a lawyer, senator and advocate, Murray Sinclair’s impact was felt across Canada. On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan and the people of our province, I offer my sincere condolences to Mr. Sinclair’s family and friends.”
A Statement from the Saskatoon Tribal Council says the STC and the seven Member Nations join with all of Canada in mourning the loss of Murray Sinclair. STC Tribal Chief Mark Arcand says, “Everyone in Canada owes Senator Sinclair their thanks for his work advancing Truth and Reconciliation. His lifetime of service helped put us on a path to better outcomes for our people who still are suffering from the effects of residential schools.”
A Facebook post from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation says, “Words cannot express our gratitude for all you have done to advance the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in this country and for your unwavering commitment to reconciliation, ensuring that the truths of residential school Survivors are never forgotten.”
