WINNIPEG — The former Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission has passed away at the age of 73.
Murray Sinclair died in a Winnipeg hospital Monday.
He spent his career as an Indigenous leader in the justice system, but his most influential achievement was his chairmanship of the inquiry into Canada's residential school system.
He and his fellow commissioners crisscrossed the country for six years to document the stories of residential school survivors.
When the commission completed its work in 2015, it recommended 94 calls to action.
Sinclair was a member of the Peguis First Nation in Manitoba, and his traditional Anishinaabe name was Mizhana Gheezhik, or "The One Who speaks of Pictures in the Sky."
He graduated from law school in 1979, and became the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba and, 11 years later, became only the second in Canada.
In 2018, Sinclair conducted an independent investigation of the Thunder Bay Police Services Board at the request of the Ontario Civilian Police Commission.
He recommended the appointment of an administrator to temporarily serve in place of the board.
“Given the long standing and troubling circumstances in Thunder Bay and the Board’s dismissive attitudes toward taking positive steps to address them, the Investigation determined that bold measures are required,” Sinclair wrote.
The OCPC accepted his findings, concluding the board’s repeated failures to address the concerns of the Indigenous community constituted an emergency.
The former senator's family released a statement saying "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."
The statement added “We know that stories of his kindness, generosity, and fairness will circulate for generations to come.”
The family has asked for privacy, but a sacred fire was to be lit outside the Manitoba legislature for members of the public who wish to pay their respects.
Governor General Mary Simon issued a statement saying she is deeply saddened by Murray Sinclair's passing.
"In 2022, I had the privilege to invest Senator Sinclair as Companion of the Order of Canada for his life's work. A kind, wise and generous soul, he had an exceptional ability to inspire people and to touch hearts," she said.
Condolences have also been expressed by Indigenous organizations based in Thunder Bay.
Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler called Sinclair a tremendously accomplished and inspirational leader, and said his voice and vision will be greatly missed.
Fiddler said he took time to engage with NAN youth over the years, and facilitated opportunities for them to develop relationships with the federal government.
The Ontario Native Women's Association described the late judge as a champion of Indigenous justice and advocacy, saying "he taught people what reconciliation should look like...He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy."
Tributes have also come from politicians from all parties.
Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu posted a social media message, calling Sinclair a visionary and leader.
"His devotion to justice and healing will inspire generations. I will never forget his kindness and his fierce commitment to truth and reconciliation," she wrote.
Eric Melillo, the Conservative MP for Kenora, said "It is heartbreaking to learn of the death of Murray Sinclair. He was instrumental in the advancement of reconciliation and will be missed by Canadians across the country."
Greg Rickford, Ontario's Minister of Indigenous Affairs, said Sinclair devoted his life to public service and to the advancement of reconciliation.
In the legislature, MPP Sol Mamakwa (NDP - Kiiwetinoong) rose to ask for a moment of silence in his honour, saying his work redefined how Canadians view the history of residential schools.
Chair Karen Machado also issued a statement on behalf of the Thunder Bay Police Services Board, saying "We will always remember and be grateful for the impact and influence of Mr. Sinclair's work to improve and transform the board...the board continues to be guided by Mr. Sinclair's recommendations and his belief in truth, justice, and leading with fairness."
