Flags lowered at all schools and buildings in memory of The Honourable Murray Sinclair
The Honourable Murray Sinclair, a celebrated champion for Indigenous justice and education, passed away on Monday, November 4, 2024. School flags have been lowered to half-mast for four days, in accordance with Anishinabek protocol, in his honour, and to recognize his commitment and dedication to truth and justice in his roles as lawyer, judge, Senator and as the Commissioner of the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which laid out the 94 Calls to Action.
Mr. Sinclair dedicated his life to amplifying Indigenous voices, histories and truths. He understood the power of education in shaping a better future, believing it was essential for all generations to learn from our collective past and strive to do better. His brilliance, wisdom, and kindness were gifts to all who encountered him and his passing is deeply felt across Turtle Island.
Director of Education Katherine MacIver, remembers the Honorable Murray Sinclair. “In his words, he showed us a path and we recognize that we are at the base of the mountain but we are committed to continue the work in pursuing truth and justice advocacy.”
In reflecting on the 94 Calls to Action, Mr. Sinclair once said, “The road we travel is equal in importance to the destination we seek. There are no shortcuts. When it comes to truth and reconciliation, we are forced to go the distance.”
He recognized the progress being made in Canadian schools toward truth and understanding, but emphasized that the work of reconciliation is ongoing. We must continue to learn and take meaningful action to understand the full history of what is now called Canada.
After retiring from the Senate in 2021, Mr. Sinclair served as the 15th Chancellor of Queen's University from 2021 to June 30, 2024, becoming the first Indigenous person to hold this prestigious position.
For more on his life and accomplishments, read this CBC article.
A sacred fire has been lit at the Manitoba Legislative Building in his honour. The family has requested that no additional sacred fires be lit across the country, so that there may be only one. In lieu of flowers, they invite those who are able to donate to The Murray Sinclair Memorial Fund at The Winnipeg Foundation. Donations will support Indigenous women, children, families, and Survivors, causes close to his heart.
Our collective thoughts at HPEDSB are with his family, friends and community during this time of loss.