Queen Commemorates One-Year Anniversary of Chancellor Emeritus Murray Sinclair’s Passing
Chancellor Emeritus Murray Sinclair, who passed away at the age of 73 on November 4, 2024, is being commemorated one year after his death. Sinclair holds a prominent place in Canadian history as Queen’s University’s first Indigenous Chancellor and a former Special Advisor on Reconciliation.
Honoring Murray Sinclair’s Legacy
Queen’s University is set to formally honor Sinclair’s contributions and memory. He served as Chancellor from 2021 to 2024 and was influential in guiding discussions about reconciliation in Canada. Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane emphasized Sinclair’s deep commitment to his role, stating that he understood the responsibilities tied to being Chancellor.
Sinclair’s impact extended beyond Queen’s, as he was also Manitoba’s first Indigenous judge and chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. His insights into the critical role of education in reconciliation resonate strongly, especially concerning Canada’s residential school system.
Reflections from University Leadership
- Patrick Deane noted Sinclair’s dedication, even creating videos for convocations to impart wisdom to graduates.
- Deane highlighted Sinclair’s belief that education could help heal the historical wounds inflicted by residential schools.
- Current Chancellor Shelagh Rogers recounted instances of Sinclair’s commitment to dialogue and inclusivity.
Rogers expressed a desire to continue Sinclair’s legacy by fostering dialogue between Indigenous traditions and mainstream university culture. She proposed integrating Indigenous elements, like drumming, into traditional ceremonies such as Convocation.
A Lasting Impact on the Community
Both Deane and Rogers described Sinclair as kind, brilliant, and humorous. His ability to connect with others made a lasting impression on individuals and institutions alike. Deane referred to Sinclair as “an extraordinary human being” whose influence is felt throughout the Queen’s community.
New Initiatives to Remember Sinclair
To honor Sinclair’s legacy, Queen’s University is establishing the Chancellor Emeritus Murray Sinclair Commemorative Lecture Series, which will begin in January 2026. This initiative aims to foster open conversations about the state of the country and the university.
In addition, Sinclair’s official portrait will be unveiled during the inaugural lecture of the series, marking a significant milestone in preserving his memory and contributions to reconciliation in Canada.
