Skwlāx te Secwepemcúl̓ecw Reacts to Passing of Murray Sinclair

Kukpi7 and Tk̓wam7ipla7 of Skwlāx te Secwepemcúl̓ecw are praising the work of the late Murray Sinclair.

 “He was one of the first people of our generation who recognized a wrong and worked to change it, said Kukpi7 James Tomma following news that Sinclair, the former chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission passed away Monday (Nov 4) in Winnipeg, Manitoba at the age of 73.

“All First Nations people are in debt to him for picking up the fight.  He started us on a new path which will continue with the next generation.”

Kukpi7 Tomma added “The change I saw in my lifetime from his work was amazing. Incredible strides were made not only for First Nations but for all Canadians in recognizing Truth and Reconciliation.  He was quiet, not outspoken.  People will recognize him as a generational leader who made fundamental changes on how Canadians view First Nations.”

Sinclair was the chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission from 2009-2015.  He was also a Judge and was a Senator from 2016-2024. He was recognized for breaking barriers and inspiring others to pursue reform and justice with courage and determination.  

When asked what Sinclair’s legacy could be, Tomma explained that it could be that government and society realize First Nations have a voice and it must be heard.

Skwlāx te Secwepemcúl̓ecw will be honoring Murray Sinclair with a plaque and photo in a future band building.   “Our children and children’s children will get to know about him and honor his legacy.”

The SteS Kukpi7 and Tk̓wam7ipla7 send their condolences to Sinclair’s family on their loss.