By Gabriel Louër
(Source: NCTR)
“The important thing for the business community to understand is that reconciliation is not a spectator sport. It requires the participation of all the players”
The Honourable Murray Sinclair
(source: Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce)
The Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is profoundly saddened to hear of the passing of Murray Sinclair, one of Canada’s most respected Indigenous leaders, and a champion for justice, healing, and reconciliation.
Born in 1951, Sinclair was raised in Selkirk, Manitoba. His formative years were spent navigating the challenges of growing up as an Indigenous person in Canada, an experience that would shape his life’s work.
As a young adult he would go on to pursue his undergraduate studies at the University of Winnipeg and would later enter the Robson Hall Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba.
A trailblazer in both law and politics, Sinclair became the first Indigenous person in Manitoba to be appointed as a judge in 1988. His legal career, however, was just one aspect of his extensive contributions to the Indigenous community.
In 2009, Sinclair was appointed as the Chief Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), a historic initiative to address the legacy of Canada’s residential school system. Under his leadership, the TRC uncovered harrowing stories of abuse and neglect endured by Indigenous children, while also offering a platform for healing.
Sinclair’s compassionate leadership and unwavering commitment to truth were central to the Commission’s success, culminating in its landmark 2015 report and the publication of 94 Calls to Action.
Post-TRC, Sinclair worked tirelessly to promote reconciliation, advocating for policies that would create sustainable, community-driven economic opportunities. He would later be appointed to the Senate in 2016. His work laid the groundwork for future generations of Indigenous leaders to build thriving, self-sufficient communities.
Sinclair’s pioneering work in advancing Indigenous rights and reconciliation helped pave the way for greater recognition and respect for Indigenous peoples in Canada. His legacy is one of dignity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice. As Canada continues its journey of healing, Murray Sinclair’s influence will remain a guiding force for generations to come. The ICC will forever cherish the legacy that Sinclair has left behind.