A public memorial service in honour of the life and work of Murray Sinclair is set to take place at Canada Life Centre this afternoon.
Thousands paid respects at a sacred fire for the Anishinaabe former judge, senator and Truth and Reconciliation chairman at the Manitoba legislature last week. Sinclair died on Nov. 4 at 73.
Today’s public service is in recognition of Sinclair’s lifelong commitment to human rights and justice for Indigenous peoples. In a statement Sunday morning, his family said they are humbled by the love and respect shown to him, and they urged the public not to look back in sadness.
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Thousands are expected to gather at a public memorial service in honour of Murray Sinclair.
“To us, our dad was a leader and teacher in our ceremonies; but we also recognize that for innumerable others, he was also a leader in political, business and legal communities. Today’s memorial service is a beautiful celebration of the depth and breadth of another side of his work: his lifelong commitment to human rights and justice, and his relentless pursuit of the truth,” the family’s statement reads in part. “Dad’s career is of great importance to Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, across the country, and beyond. Everyone will have the opportunity to recognize the legacy of his accomplishments and tell him “Giga-waabamin miinawaa” (I will see you again).
As he is now free from pain and feeling nothing but joy; we encourage all to not look back in sadness but focus on happiness and the beauty of life and love. We know he wants his work, our work, to continue.”
The family has asked for privacy and is thanking everyone who has paid their respects. Donations are being accepted to The Murray Sinclair Memorial Fund at The Winnipeg Foundation. Cards and messages can be mailed to the offices of Cochrane Sinclair 201-211 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3B 3P2.
The public service is set to start at 2 p.m. at the downtown arena. Doors open at 1 p.m.
MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES
Mourners pay their respects to Murray Sinclair at a sacred fire lit inside a teepee in front of the Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg on Nov. 4.