How Murray Sinclair Transformed Canada

Murray Sinclair—an Anishinaabe lawyer, judge, senator, and, most notably, the chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission—passed away last week at the age of 73.

Sinclair played a pivotal role in uncovering the stories of thousands of Indigenous residential school survivors, advocating for justice on their behalf. He is widely regarded as a figure who profoundly changed Canada, reshaping what Canadians understand about their own history and identity.

Today, we present a documentary featuring three voices close to Murray Sinclair, sharing the personal lessons he imparted and reflecting on his lasting impact on the country.

We’ll hear from journalist and filmmaker Tanya Talaga; Phil Fontaine, former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations; and Kim Murray, the Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves and Burial Sites associated with Indian Residential Schools.

For survivors and those affected by residential schools, a national Indian Residential School Crisis Line is available. Support and crisis referral services are accessible 24 hours a day at 1-866-925-4419.