INDIGENOUS BAR ASSOCIATION MOURNS THE PASSING OF THE HONOURABLE MURRAY SINCLAIR, I.P.C.
It is with profound sadness that the Indigenous Bar Association (IBA) marks the passing of the Honourable Murray Sinclair, I.P.C., a beloved leader, mentor, and visionary in Indigenous justice and reconciliation. Justice Sinclair’s tireless dedication to advancing Indigenous rights and bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities has left a permanent legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Justice Sinclair, a proud Anishinaabe of the Peguis First Nation, was truly a trailblazer, setting a path for Indigenous representation in the Canadian legal system. Appointed as the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba and later serving as a Senator, he defined what it means to be a pioneer in Indigenous justice. His work with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) was transformative, bringing the painful truths of Canada’s residential school system to light and issuing Calls to Action that continue to shape Canada’s path toward reconciliation. Alongside his professional accomplishments, Justice Sinclair will be remembered for his incredible kindness, compassion, and humility – qualities that made him not only an exceptional jurist but also a true leader.
Drew Lafond, President of the Indigenous Bar Association, shared heartfelt reflections on Justice Sinclair’s legacy:
"Justice Sinclair was more than a leader; he was a guiding light in our pursuit of justice, a voice for truth, and an unwavering advocate for the rights and dignity of Indigenous Peoples. He defined what it means to be a trailblazer. His work with the TRC shifted the consciousness of a nation, and his legacy challenges each of us to carry forward his mission of reconciliation and justice. We owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude and will work to honor his legacy in everything we do. Today, we mourn not only a remarkable jurist but also a cherished elder, a true leader, and an incredibly kind human being. Hiy hiy, Justice Sinclair, for all you have given us."
The IBA extends our deepest condolences to Justice Sinclair’s family, friends, and communities. His vision, strength, and courage will continue to inspire all those who seek justice and work to fulfill the TRC’s Calls to Action. Justice Sinclair’s life serves as a powerful reminder that reconciliation is not merely an ideal but a call to action for every one of us.
The IBA is the national non-profit organization representing Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, and Inuit) lawyers (practicing and non-practicing), judges, legal academics and scholars, articling clerks and law students, including graduate and post-graduate law students and paralegals in Canada. The IBA’s mandate includes, inter alia, advocating for the recognition of Indigenous laws, legal traditions, protocols and processes; promoting the reform of policies and laws affecting Indigenous peoples in Canada; and fostering public awareness within the legal community in respect of legal and social issues of concern to Indigenous peoples in Canada. For more information, please visit www.indigenousbar.ca.
