Lives Lived: The Honorable Murray Sinclair

Statement from the family of Murray Sinclair on his passing

TREATY 1 TERRITORY/WINNIPEG — Peacefully and surrounded by love, The Honorable Murray Sinclair passed away early this morning, Monday, November 4, 2024. Mazina Giizhik (the One Who Speaks of Pictures in the Sky) committed his life in service to the people: creating change, revealing truth, and leading with fairness throughout his career.

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. We know that stories of his kindness, generosity, and fairness will circulate for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, and if you are able, please donate to The Murray Sinclair Memorial Fund at The Winnipeg Foundation. Our dad loved and supported many community organizations and your funds will prioritize Indigenous women, children, families, and Survivors.

For those who wish to pay their respects, a sacred fire to help guide Mazina Giizhik’s spirit home has been lit outside the Manitoba Legislative Building. Everyone is welcome to visit his sacred fire to make an offering of tobacco and send him your best wishes. Out of respect for his journey for the next few days, the family respectfully asks others across the country to please DO NOT light any other fires for him.

Additional information about public ceremonial events will be available in the coming days.

Our family asks for privacy in this time of mourning.