Honouring Senator Murray Sinclair
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Honourable Murray Sinclair, a revered leader who devoted his life to truth, justice, and healing. We extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones and all who were inspired by his tireless commitment to reconciliation.
Murray Sinclair led the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) with love and care, but also with a strong dedication to bringing hard and painful truths to light. Under his leadership, the TRC set a new standard for understanding and repairing relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
Murray worked to elevate the recognition of Indigenous rights and responsibilities. He made significant strides in advancing the Calls to Action, continuously challenging entrenched, colonial systems in Canada — including education, law, medicine, and politics — and holding them to account. He celebrated the progress that has been achieved while never hesitating to speak out about the work that remains.
We are profoundly grateful for Murray’s leadership and unwavering commitment. He illuminated a path forward, emphasizing that healing requires both acknowledgment and meaningful action. As we reflect on his legacy, let us remember our shared responsibility to breathe life into the TRC’s Calls to Action.
May we honour his memory and transformative work by walking together on this path of reconciliation, rooted in our relationships with the lands and waters. Inspired by the TRC’s Calls to Action, the Conservation through Reconciliation Partnership works with partners to uplift and advance Indigenous rights and responsibilities to care for their lands and waters.
When Indigenous Peoples uphold their responsibilities, honouring treaty and Aboriginal rights, they revitalize what was nearly lost to colonial oppression. Embracing peace, friendship, and respect for our environment and each other can help create a just and harmonious society for all.
- The Conservation through Reconciliation Partnership Leadership Circle