Murray Sinclair

The Honourable Murray Sinclair, a proud Anishinaabe and member of Peguis First Nation, has made significant contributions to the legal profession and Indigenous communities. He is a Fourth Degree Chief of the Midewiwin Society, a traditional Anishinaabe healing and spiritual society responsible for preserving the Nation's teachings, ceremonies, laws, and history. His Spirit Name is Mizhana Gheezhik (The One Who Speaks of Pictures in the Sky).

After graduating from law school in 1979, Murray Sinclair spent over 40 years shaping the justice system in Manitoba. He began his career as a lawyer representing Indigenous clients and later served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Robson Hall. He became the first Indigenous Judge appointed in Manitoba and the second in Canada, serving as Associate Chief Judge of Manitoba’s Provincial Court and later as a Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench.

He has been a leading figure in Indigenous justice, serving as Co-Chair of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry of Manitoba and as Chief Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC). Under his leadership, the TRC held hearings across Canada and produced the influential 2015 report, marking a pivotal moment in Canada’s journey toward reconciliation. His work also included overseeing a multi-million dollar fundraising initiative to support TRC events and survivor participation. In recognition of his efforts, Governor General Julie Payette awarded him the Meritorious Service Cross (Civilian) in 2017.

Throughout his career, Murray Sinclair has remained deeply engaged with both the legal profession and Indigenous communities. As a faculty member at the National Judicial Institute, he helped train judges on Indigenous law and social justice issues. His many accolades include the National Aboriginal Achievement Award, the Manitoba Bar Association’s Equality Award (2001), the Distinguished Service Award (2016), and the CBA President’s Medal (2018). He is also recognized as one of Canada’s Indigenous Peoples’ Counsel (IPC) by the Indigenous Bar Association.

Murray Sinclair has been awarded honorary doctorates from 14 universities. After retiring from the Bench in 2016, he was appointed to the Senate, where he served until January 2021. Today, he continues to mentor young lawyers, practice law, and write his memoirs.

A respected speaker both in Canada and internationally, Murray Sinclair has presented at numerous events, including the prestigious Cambridge Lectures. He continues to maintain an active schedule, sharing his wisdom and experience with audiences across the globe.