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Who We Are: Four Questions For a Life and a Nation
Judge, senator, and activist. Father, grandfather, and friend. This is Murray Sinclair’s story—and the story of a nation—in his own words, an oral history that forgoes the trappings of the traditionally written memoir to center Indigenous ways of knowledge and storytelling. As Canada moves forward into the future of Reconciliation, one of its greatest leaders guides us to ask the most important and difficult question we can ask of Who are we?
For decades, Senator Sinclair has fearlessly educated Canadians about the painful truths of our history. He was the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba, and only the second Indigenous judge in Canadian history. He was the Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and remains one of the foremost voices on Reconciliation. And now, for the first time, he shares his full story—and his full vision for our nation—with readers across Canada and beyond.
Drawing on Senator Sinclair’s perspectives regarding Indigenous identity, human rights, and justice, Who We Are examines the roles of history, resistance, and resilience in the pursuit of finding a path forward, one that heals the damaged relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. In doing so, it reveals Senator Sinclair’s life in a new and direct way, exploring how all of these unique experiences have shaped him as an Anishinaabe man, father, and grandfather.
Structured around the four questions that have long shaped Senator Sinclair’s thinking and worldview—Where do I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here? Who am I?—Who We Are takes readers into the story of his remarkable life as never before, while challenging them to embrace an inclusive vision for our shared future.
The book includes the What We Have Learned report, created by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC).
For decades, Senator Sinclair has fearlessly educated Canadians about the painful truths of our history. He was the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba, and only the second Indigenous judge in Canadian history. He was the Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and remains one of the foremost voices on Reconciliation. And now, for the first time, he shares his full story—and his full vision for our nation—with readers across Canada and beyond.
Drawing on Senator Sinclair’s perspectives regarding Indigenous identity, human rights, and justice, Who We Are examines the roles of history, resistance, and resilience in the pursuit of finding a path forward, one that heals the damaged relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. In doing so, it reveals Senator Sinclair’s life in a new and direct way, exploring how all of these unique experiences have shaped him as an Anishinaabe man, father, and grandfather.
Structured around the four questions that have long shaped Senator Sinclair’s thinking and worldview—Where do I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here? Who am I?—Who We Are takes readers into the story of his remarkable life as never before, while challenging them to embrace an inclusive vision for our shared future.
The book includes the What We Have Learned report, created by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC).
Audible Audio
Published October 1, 2024
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About the author
Murray Sinclair
16 books14 followersCalvin Murray Sinclair was a Canadian politician who was a member of the Senate, and a First Nations lawyer who served as chairman of the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission from 2009 to 2015.
Sinclair previously served as Manitoba's first Indigenous judge from 1988 to 2009, and was appointed to the Senate of Canada on April 2, 2016. In November 2020, he announced his retirement from the Senate effective January 31, 2021.
Queen's University announced the appointment of Sinclair as the 15th chancellor, succeeding Jim Leech. He assumed the role on July 1, 2021. He declined to seek reappointment, with his term expiring on June 30, 2024. Instead, he accepted a new role as the Chancellor Emeritus and Special Advisor to the Principal on Reconciliation of Queen's University.
Sinclair previously served as Manitoba's first Indigenous judge from 1988 to 2009, and was appointed to the Senate of Canada on April 2, 2016. In November 2020, he announced his retirement from the Senate effective January 31, 2021.
Queen's University announced the appointment of Sinclair as the 15th chancellor, succeeding Jim Leech. He assumed the role on July 1, 2021. He declined to seek reappointment, with his term expiring on June 30, 2024. Instead, he accepted a new role as the Chancellor Emeritus and Special Advisor to the Principal on Reconciliation of Queen's University.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
February 11, 2025
I’ve said for years that Murray Sinclair is one of the greatest Canadians to ever live. This book certainly cemented that belief for me. What a fascinating, beautiful, poignant, and often humorous life he lived. I’ve always looked up to him with admiration of all the work he led toward achieving true, meaningful reconciliation efforts in Canada - a rare lawyer/politician lead by heart. He was a giant, and Canada is surely a darker place in his absence.
November 16, 2024
This is a must read book for anyone who wants to understand Canada better. Murray Sinclair's work as a lawyer, judge, senator, and leadership of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission left a permanent mark on Canada.
The first part of the book has Sinclair speaking in his own words, asking four basic questions: where do I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here? Who am I? He answers those questions regarding himself, and encourages readers to consider those for themselves. Sinclair was wise, eloquent, and brave. You cannot help but admire the man who speaks so simply yet so profoundly.
The last portion of the book contains a brief synopsis of the history of residential schools as well as their legacy. This summary is barely a drop in the bucket of what is contained in the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, but it is an introduction. I have read two volumes of the final report, and they are worth the time investment.
Sinclair talked about reconciliation being about mutual respect. After his recent death, and hearing the voices of those who knew him, it is clear that Sinclair practiced this attitude of respecting others. His example is worth following.
The first part of the book has Sinclair speaking in his own words, asking four basic questions: where do I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here? Who am I? He answers those questions regarding himself, and encourages readers to consider those for themselves. Sinclair was wise, eloquent, and brave. You cannot help but admire the man who speaks so simply yet so profoundly.
The last portion of the book contains a brief synopsis of the history of residential schools as well as their legacy. This summary is barely a drop in the bucket of what is contained in the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, but it is an introduction. I have read two volumes of the final report, and they are worth the time investment.
Sinclair talked about reconciliation being about mutual respect. After his recent death, and hearing the voices of those who knew him, it is clear that Sinclair practiced this attitude of respecting others. His example is worth following.
February 4, 2025
What an incredible book about a truly incredible person. This book was absolutely brilliant. There are heavy, but very important, themes and topics discussed but it is done in such a good way. This book is truly a testament to Murray Sinclair’s legacy. This book is a reminder of the career path that I want to build - one that can help to effect real change in this world. The audio book also has parts narrated by Murray Sinclair and his son, which makes the listening experience that much more incredible. I wish I could give this book more stars. It’ll make you cry, giggle, warm your heart, make you ask yourself tough questions and have you engage in some critical reflection. Mandatory reading
October 9, 2024
I feel gutted and also grateful to have read this and therefore to continue my education as a Canadian citizen.
July 30, 2025
“Who We Are” is two books. In the first part, Murray Sinclair provides an engaging memoir, very much in an oral tradition (his granddaughter and son transcribed and edited his remembrances). Sinclair focuses on his upbringing with his grandparents and his professional career. This is not a ‘tell all’ memoir. The second part is the abridged Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, which is very confronting but probably necessary for all Canadians to read.
December 2, 2024
Murray Sinclair, one of our great Canadians, who unfortunately passed away shortly after this book came out. He shares his history, growing up Indigenous in Selkirk Manitoba, becoming a member of the senate, becoming the first Indigenous judge and his work with the Truth and Reconciliation report. An amazing and honorable man. This should be required reading for all of us here in Canada.
The book includes the What We Have Learned report, created by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC), which in itself is incredibly educational.
I learned so much by reading this book.
The book includes the What We Have Learned report, created by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC), which in itself is incredibly educational.
I learned so much by reading this book.
December 9, 2024
This book is both the excellent biography of Murray Sinclair’s life and the haunting results from the Canadian Truth and Reconciliation Commision that Murray Sinclair chaired. He was a remarkable man - an indigenous person whose parents were sent to the schools and who died early in life because of that. His grandparents raised him. He offered extradinary service to indigenous people in Canada.as a lawyer and judge too.
I was chocked up a lot reading the Commissions results and experiencing the cruelty to the indigenous kids, families and people working in the schools to help them. It was a very thorough review. The results were shared widely. But as of Murray’s passing on November 3,2024 not much retribution has been offered to the victims.
Reading this book brought back to me the tales I learned in school as a kid of the French and others who came to the “New World for animal skins and colonized the populace and left the Catholic religion behind. The French Canadians because they were Catholic weren’t very welcome with the Boston Brahman and New Englanders.nor were a lot other people welcomed. All things that weren’t said and still aren’t now.
The Canadian indigenous people saw the Irish, Māori, and indigenous Australians as kin because similar things that happened to them all. Cultures taken away, languages taken away, rituals taken away and land and resources taken too. A way of life desecrated, people and human hearts destroyed for many.
This is one of the best books I read this year. Living history.
I was chocked up a lot reading the Commissions results and experiencing the cruelty to the indigenous kids, families and people working in the schools to help them. It was a very thorough review. The results were shared widely. But as of Murray’s passing on November 3,2024 not much retribution has been offered to the victims.
Reading this book brought back to me the tales I learned in school as a kid of the French and others who came to the “New World for animal skins and colonized the populace and left the Catholic religion behind. The French Canadians because they were Catholic weren’t very welcome with the Boston Brahman and New Englanders.nor were a lot other people welcomed. All things that weren’t said and still aren’t now.
The Canadian indigenous people saw the Irish, Māori, and indigenous Australians as kin because similar things that happened to them all. Cultures taken away, languages taken away, rituals taken away and land and resources taken too. A way of life desecrated, people and human hearts destroyed for many.
This is one of the best books I read this year. Living history.
October 15, 2024
What an amazing book. Lots of history but also a geeat story of his life at the beginning. An excellent book 📕 for anyone wanting to learn about indigenous life, residential schools and the TRC. Highly recommend this book.
February 7, 2025
The Great Questions of Life:
Where do I come from?
Where am I going?
Why am I here?
Who am I?
“We know, making this better will not happen overnight, it will take generations.”
Wow! Books like this are important. They help us grow and become more than what we were.
The first half of this book is the story of Murray Sinclair, from childhood experience to adult life, career, love and education. The second half of the book is all about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, or the TRC.
“By establishing a new, and respectful relationship between aboriginal and non-aboriginal Canadians, we will restore what must be restored, repair what must be repaired, and return what must be returned.”
There is so much Canadian history that isn’t taught in schools represented in this book. Personally, growing up I was not taught much of First Nations or Indigenous people, a lot of the learning I have had to do on my own time and desire to learn. This book was wonderful. The life story of the Honourable Murray Sinclair is so impressive, he has had such an impactful life on so many, and well as individually changing the life of specific people that came before him in the Canadian courts.
“Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada was mandated to tell Canadians about the histories of residential schools and the impact those schools had on aboriginal peoples, and to guide a process of reconciliation.”
Some of the facts that are brought up are things that you may have heard in passing but when you actually get to expiernce the stories that go along with the facts, it really changes perceptions. The last residential school in Canada closed in the late 1990’s, while I myself would have been in school. The schools had limited staff, who were poorly trained, and yet were tasked with horrible and impossible tasks. Descriptions of the Train of Tears, were just heartbreaking to hear. Both the experience of both the children and the parents. The book takes you through the experience of the residential schools and what that looked like from being taken from home, to the day to day of the school life.
There is a descriptive and in-depth history on what it looked like during the colonization of Canada. The actions of those in the church, and their mentality that they know best, is always astonishing to me, and honestly makes me content to be not part of the popular church systems. The book explains parts of the Indian Act in ways that make sense, with modern language, and at the same time being able explain what that meant for the people at the time, and the people today. We don’t know what we don’t know, and unless we actively search out these learnings we will continue to not understand Canada’s history and how we can grown from where we came from.
“Reconciliation between aboriginal and non aboriginal Canadians, from an aboriginal perspective, also requires reconciliation with the natural world. If human beings resolve problems between themselves, but continue to destroy the natural, world then reconciliation remains incomplete.”
Where do I come from?
Where am I going?
Why am I here?
Who am I?
“We know, making this better will not happen overnight, it will take generations.”
Wow! Books like this are important. They help us grow and become more than what we were.
The first half of this book is the story of Murray Sinclair, from childhood experience to adult life, career, love and education. The second half of the book is all about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, or the TRC.
“By establishing a new, and respectful relationship between aboriginal and non-aboriginal Canadians, we will restore what must be restored, repair what must be repaired, and return what must be returned.”
There is so much Canadian history that isn’t taught in schools represented in this book. Personally, growing up I was not taught much of First Nations or Indigenous people, a lot of the learning I have had to do on my own time and desire to learn. This book was wonderful. The life story of the Honourable Murray Sinclair is so impressive, he has had such an impactful life on so many, and well as individually changing the life of specific people that came before him in the Canadian courts.
“Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada was mandated to tell Canadians about the histories of residential schools and the impact those schools had on aboriginal peoples, and to guide a process of reconciliation.”
Some of the facts that are brought up are things that you may have heard in passing but when you actually get to expiernce the stories that go along with the facts, it really changes perceptions. The last residential school in Canada closed in the late 1990’s, while I myself would have been in school. The schools had limited staff, who were poorly trained, and yet were tasked with horrible and impossible tasks. Descriptions of the Train of Tears, were just heartbreaking to hear. Both the experience of both the children and the parents. The book takes you through the experience of the residential schools and what that looked like from being taken from home, to the day to day of the school life.
There is a descriptive and in-depth history on what it looked like during the colonization of Canada. The actions of those in the church, and their mentality that they know best, is always astonishing to me, and honestly makes me content to be not part of the popular church systems. The book explains parts of the Indian Act in ways that make sense, with modern language, and at the same time being able explain what that meant for the people at the time, and the people today. We don’t know what we don’t know, and unless we actively search out these learnings we will continue to not understand Canada’s history and how we can grown from where we came from.
“Reconciliation between aboriginal and non aboriginal Canadians, from an aboriginal perspective, also requires reconciliation with the natural world. If human beings resolve problems between themselves, but continue to destroy the natural, world then reconciliation remains incomplete.”
January 17, 2025
This was actually two books, in a sense. Sinclair's autobiography, which I really enjoyed, and the TRC report summary,* which I'd read before but was worth revisiting years later.
What stood out above all was this quote from survivor Evelyn Brockwood at a 2010 hearing in Manitoba: "We should really lift up the word healing....Go slow, we are going too fast....We have many tears to shed before we even get to the word reconciliation."
Healing is a forever process. For survivors. For their descendants. Also for perpetrators. Bystanders. And their descendants. And therefore for the nation.
Maybe the two things can happen together, but the pace cannot be rushed. What happened was so big and so difficult, and so wrong.
I was drawn to the book partially by Sinclair's approach of using a traditional teaching to structure his story. It was very readable, an oral style. Very much listening to an Elder. Having written a book about a residential school as the TRC unfolded (and afterward), I was fascinated by his thinking about the process, his reasoning for the decisions the commission made.
I'm hesitant to call anyone a great man. Murray Sinclair certainly carried heavy burdens in his life and work, and did Indigenous people and Canadians a great service. I enjoyed meeting him once, and I highly recommend this book.
*The one big shortcoming is that while there were more than 500 superscript numbers indicating notes of some kind, the notes were no where to be found. I found myself compulsively checking. Maybe that's just me.
What stood out above all was this quote from survivor Evelyn Brockwood at a 2010 hearing in Manitoba: "We should really lift up the word healing....Go slow, we are going too fast....We have many tears to shed before we even get to the word reconciliation."
Healing is a forever process. For survivors. For their descendants. Also for perpetrators. Bystanders. And their descendants. And therefore for the nation.
Maybe the two things can happen together, but the pace cannot be rushed. What happened was so big and so difficult, and so wrong.
I was drawn to the book partially by Sinclair's approach of using a traditional teaching to structure his story. It was very readable, an oral style. Very much listening to an Elder. Having written a book about a residential school as the TRC unfolded (and afterward), I was fascinated by his thinking about the process, his reasoning for the decisions the commission made.
I'm hesitant to call anyone a great man. Murray Sinclair certainly carried heavy burdens in his life and work, and did Indigenous people and Canadians a great service. I enjoyed meeting him once, and I highly recommend this book.
*The one big shortcoming is that while there were more than 500 superscript numbers indicating notes of some kind, the notes were no where to be found. I found myself compulsively checking. Maybe that's just me.
February 1, 2025
This is really two books. The first half is Sinclair's personal account of some of his major accomplishments - chairing the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry and the Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Inquest, and of course, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) - all of this with a bunch of family and personal anecdotes included. I found this half of the book fascinating, being familiar with all of these milestone events and getting Sinclair's personal take on that experience from the inside.
The second half of the book answers the question 'What we have learned'. It summarizes the history that led to the creation of, and experience of Residential Schools, as described by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. This is a very different read than the first half, but still very accessible and an absolutely essential read for any Canadian.
The second half of the book answers the question 'What we have learned'. It summarizes the history that led to the creation of, and experience of Residential Schools, as described by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. This is a very different read than the first half, but still very accessible and an absolutely essential read for any Canadian.
December 2, 2024
We are so lucky to have had Murray Sinclair with us for as long as we did. His work was incredible and his legacy will be long-lasting. I'm very thankful that his book was finished before his death.
This was a beautiful memoir, and I'm glad it was transcribed from conversations with Murray. I felt as if he was talking directly to me, the cadence was all there, his interjections, going off-topic, rambling, it all added up to him speaking to the reader.
Thankful for the "What We Have Learned" section from the TRC, really heavy and hard to read at times but important.
I may end up listening to this again, I think it would make an incredible audiobook.
This was a beautiful memoir, and I'm glad it was transcribed from conversations with Murray. I felt as if he was talking directly to me, the cadence was all there, his interjections, going off-topic, rambling, it all added up to him speaking to the reader.
Thankful for the "What We Have Learned" section from the TRC, really heavy and hard to read at times but important.
I may end up listening to this again, I think it would make an incredible audiobook.
May 14, 2025
I finished this one a while ago as part of a book club. Murray Sinclair’s storytelling is just as if he were sitting across from you and he was telling stories of his childhood, schooling, being a lawyer and judge and most importantly, heading the TRC committee. The stories come with a range of emotions but if you don’t know who this Canadian figure is- you will know him better after reading this book.
July 20, 2025
What an incredible life. He helped to create the TRC and gave so many residential school survivors opportunities to heal and share their story, and paved a path for Canadians to create a better tomorrow. If only my grandmother could have lived long enough to tell her story there. I want to continue the good work in education that he talks about so no child has to go through that again.
July 10, 2025
What an incredible life and legacy.
September 16, 2025
An excellent and essential “listen” (the audiobook is very well done!) about truth, legacy, and so much more. RIP The Honourable Murray Sinclair.
October 6, 2025
Excellent. Promoted to read this for the Amnesty International Book Club. This book will change the way people think.
July 1, 2025
This is a must-read for all Canadians. It educates and motivates, we must all do our part for true reconciliation. Murray Sinclair, gone too soon, has left each of us a gift. Please accept it.
January 17, 2025
Murray Sinclair was truly an amazing man. And I also appreciated that he included the "What We Have Learned" section from the TRC in his book - it was really difficult to read at times but I feel it is also very important for every Canadian to read.
July 6, 2025
A vital work to review. The Honourable Murray Sinclair shares his personal experiences and upbringing, including his struggles with racism towards Indigenous people in the Canadan legal and political system. The book includes a report from the Truth and Reconciliation Comission (TRC) titled 'What we have learned: Principles of Truth and Reconciliation' which contains eye-opening statistics and research about the injustices done to Indigenous people.
November 9, 2024
I learned a lot about the history of Canada from reading this book. I appreciated the thoughtful approach to hard topics and I especially enjoyed Murray Sinclair’s poetry.
November 7, 2024
The story of Murray Sinclair’s life and work from a young indigenous youth t chairing one of the most consequential enquires of our time. He details life from an indigenous perspective and sheds light on the horror and abuses of the residential schools. A fascinating read
April 6, 2025
Embarrassing to admit I’d never heard of Mr.Sinclair until he passed away last year. All Canadians should listen/read this book, this might be a rare exception when I encourage the listening. Hearing much of it in Mr.Sinclair’s own voice lends a power to the words. Then, when his son takes over, the similarities in tone and pace are so similar it is easy to allow yourself to think you’re hearing from a younger Mr.Sinclair and not his son. Although, I suppose we are hearing from a younger Mr.Sinclair.
February 1, 2025
Book Review Who We Are: Four Questions for a Life and a Nation by The Honourable Murray Sinclair and Mazina Giizhik
This is a two for one deal. The first half of the book is the story and life lessons Sinclair wants to impart to us. The second half is What We Have Learned: Principles of Truth and Reconciliation The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
I have looked up to and respected Justice/Senator Sinclair since very early in my career as a social worker and have watched his career with awe. I saw him as a tremendous leader for Manitoba but also for Canada and watched his impact and influence begin to change the systemically racist systems that negatively impact Indigenous people. This book provides a look into him and his legacy. It is oriented around the Great Questions of life: Where do I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here? And Who am I? How he answers these questions formulates the structure to the book. It is told in a wonderful storytelling voice capturing his experiences that influenced the answers to these questions and the Elders that guided his learning and wisdom. It is a wonderful book full of Indigenous teachings and lessons, his personal experiences and observations and makes me miss him even more. Miigwech
What We Have Learned is a summary of the information gathered and his observations while Sinclair was a commissioner for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. It is
probably the best summary of the residential school system I have read. It concisely outlines the rationale for establishment, governance and how it was implemented across Canada. It also provides history of colonization and how the residential school system fit into the goals of colonization,
It powerfully outlines the trauma experienced by the children, parents and communities and the impact on generations of Indigenous people. It makes it clear why this is cultural genocide. It is incredibly informative and powerful. It is also a call to action for reconciliation.
From Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s apology on behalf of Canada
The primary purpose of the residential schools had been to remove children from their homes and families in order to assimilate them better into the dominant culture. These objectives were based on the assumption Aboriginal cultures and spiritual beliefs were inferior and unequal. Indeed, some sought, “to kill the Indian in the child”. Today we recognize that this policy if assimilation was wrong, has caused great harm and has no place in our country.
Honourable Gilles Duceppe
Picture a small village, a small community. Now picture all of its children, gone. No more children between seven and sixteen playing in the lanes or the woods, filling the hearts of their elders with their laughter and joy.
This is a two for one deal. The first half of the book is the story and life lessons Sinclair wants to impart to us. The second half is What We Have Learned: Principles of Truth and Reconciliation The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
I have looked up to and respected Justice/Senator Sinclair since very early in my career as a social worker and have watched his career with awe. I saw him as a tremendous leader for Manitoba but also for Canada and watched his impact and influence begin to change the systemically racist systems that negatively impact Indigenous people. This book provides a look into him and his legacy. It is oriented around the Great Questions of life: Where do I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here? And Who am I? How he answers these questions formulates the structure to the book. It is told in a wonderful storytelling voice capturing his experiences that influenced the answers to these questions and the Elders that guided his learning and wisdom. It is a wonderful book full of Indigenous teachings and lessons, his personal experiences and observations and makes me miss him even more. Miigwech
What We Have Learned is a summary of the information gathered and his observations while Sinclair was a commissioner for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. It is
probably the best summary of the residential school system I have read. It concisely outlines the rationale for establishment, governance and how it was implemented across Canada. It also provides history of colonization and how the residential school system fit into the goals of colonization,
It powerfully outlines the trauma experienced by the children, parents and communities and the impact on generations of Indigenous people. It makes it clear why this is cultural genocide. It is incredibly informative and powerful. It is also a call to action for reconciliation.
From Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s apology on behalf of Canada
The primary purpose of the residential schools had been to remove children from their homes and families in order to assimilate them better into the dominant culture. These objectives were based on the assumption Aboriginal cultures and spiritual beliefs were inferior and unequal. Indeed, some sought, “to kill the Indian in the child”. Today we recognize that this policy if assimilation was wrong, has caused great harm and has no place in our country.
Honourable Gilles Duceppe
Picture a small village, a small community. Now picture all of its children, gone. No more children between seven and sixteen playing in the lanes or the woods, filling the hearts of their elders with their laughter and joy.
March 28, 2025
Murray Sinclair's memoir is a moving and insightful account of a life that made a difference. Growing up in St Peters ,near Selkirk Manitoba, ( the St Peters reserve land with many successful Indigenous farmers was fraudulently taken over in 1908 by the Department of Indian Affairs ,with the Peguis
First Nation finally recieving a land-claim settlement in 2008 for the original illegal land transfer) living with his grandparents, Sinclair had a brillant career beginning his path working in a Friendship Centre, then as an assistant to an NDP Cabinet minister, becoming a lawyer, then a judge, famously chairing the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission from 2009-2015, then becoming a
member of the Canadian Senate 2016-2021.In every stage of his journey he was a trail- blazer, one of only a few Indigenous students in Law School,the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba 1988-2009, the Indigenous chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which did so much to reveal the truth about the horrors of Residential schools while presenting a wide ranging Action Plan for governments to adopt and finally one of a very few Indigenous Senators.
His memoir Who We Are describes these achievements but the themes of the book are really about the necessity of knowing your culture for a truly meaningful life. He structures the book around 4 questions: Where do we come from,Where I am going, Why am I here and Who am I? Sinclair highlights these questions by referring to his own life and how he changed as he sought answers.He portrays his grandparents vividly and describes the difficulties of growing up as an Indigenous boy in Selkirk. He was successful in sports and in the Air Cadets but not until his teens did he begin to realize that he knew little of Indigenous traditions and teaching.His schooling in the 1950s and 60s had passed over Indigenous life entirely and Residential schools had tried to eradicate Indigenous culture
in his parent's abd grandparent's generations. He threw himself into the study of his heritage and his memoir has many insights about the role of Elders and Indigenous spirituality and notions of the Creator.( his grandmother had wanted him to become a Catholic priest )He was a wise and compassionate man ( he died recently in 2024) and wrote this memoir to encourage his readers to undertake a similar path of self- learning.
First Nation finally recieving a land-claim settlement in 2008 for the original illegal land transfer) living with his grandparents, Sinclair had a brillant career beginning his path working in a Friendship Centre, then as an assistant to an NDP Cabinet minister, becoming a lawyer, then a judge, famously chairing the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission from 2009-2015, then becoming a
member of the Canadian Senate 2016-2021.In every stage of his journey he was a trail- blazer, one of only a few Indigenous students in Law School,the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba 1988-2009, the Indigenous chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which did so much to reveal the truth about the horrors of Residential schools while presenting a wide ranging Action Plan for governments to adopt and finally one of a very few Indigenous Senators.
His memoir Who We Are describes these achievements but the themes of the book are really about the necessity of knowing your culture for a truly meaningful life. He structures the book around 4 questions: Where do we come from,Where I am going, Why am I here and Who am I? Sinclair highlights these questions by referring to his own life and how he changed as he sought answers.He portrays his grandparents vividly and describes the difficulties of growing up as an Indigenous boy in Selkirk. He was successful in sports and in the Air Cadets but not until his teens did he begin to realize that he knew little of Indigenous traditions and teaching.His schooling in the 1950s and 60s had passed over Indigenous life entirely and Residential schools had tried to eradicate Indigenous culture
in his parent's abd grandparent's generations. He threw himself into the study of his heritage and his memoir has many insights about the role of Elders and Indigenous spirituality and notions of the Creator.( his grandmother had wanted him to become a Catholic priest )He was a wise and compassionate man ( he died recently in 2024) and wrote this memoir to encourage his readers to undertake a similar path of self- learning.
August 29, 2025
This is a must read for all Canadians and should be part of school curriculum. Senator Sinclair writes about his life, which does not include residential schools as he was brought up by his grandparents. His story is very easy to read and his way of writing is very much in the storyteller’s style. He was disadvantaged by a system that was racist and favoured white settlers who thought that they knew what was best for our indigenous people. However, his indomitable spirit continued on and I believe that he was answering to a calling, one that he felt that he must fulfill. It has been a long journey that continues for truth and reconciliation , much of it in part to Senator Sinclair. He has included in his book the 100 pages that summarize the findings from TRC for which he was chair. His story can be read quite easily. He does not shy away from the hard truths but also does not dwell on them but continues to move us forward towards the truth. The report summary takes more time to read as it should, so that the horror and disbelief can be fully realized. I grew up in the Anglican Church of Canada and would consider myself a devout Christian. Among other reasons, I have stop attending the Anglican Church, and this is another reason as I struggle to understand how any Christian organization could allow this kind of abuse and degradation of a nation. My faith in people and church has been shaken but not for God as I see his presence in people like Murray Sinclair, may his memory never be forgotten.
March 15, 2025
Who We Are is divided into two parts. The first half is about Murray Sinclair’s life, professionally and personally. Mr. Sinclair writes that at the heart of this book are four fundamental questions which he discusses in the first four sections through his experiences. The second half of the book is a detailed accounting of the long and sordid history of residential schools in Canada that were brought to light when he was Chief Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation (TRD) Commission.
To say that I learned a lot from this book would be a huge understatement. As a white Canadian, I like so many others of my generation, weren’t taught true Canadian history, especially with respect to Indigenous lives. The egregious 130-year long attempts of churches and governments to assimilate First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people by separating children from their families is unconscionable. To be forbidden to use their language, customs, and even acknowledge their culture is criminal. These are just some examples of the many atrocities that impacted children’s health and well-being for decades. The stories are heart-wrenching but also insightful as readers are given a glimpse of different perspectives. This book gave me a clearer understanding as to what reconciliation truly means and why it should matter to all of us if we want to save ourselves and this planet. Highly recommended.
To say that I learned a lot from this book would be a huge understatement. As a white Canadian, I like so many others of my generation, weren’t taught true Canadian history, especially with respect to Indigenous lives. The egregious 130-year long attempts of churches and governments to assimilate First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people by separating children from their families is unconscionable. To be forbidden to use their language, customs, and even acknowledge their culture is criminal. These are just some examples of the many atrocities that impacted children’s health and well-being for decades. The stories are heart-wrenching but also insightful as readers are given a glimpse of different perspectives. This book gave me a clearer understanding as to what reconciliation truly means and why it should matter to all of us if we want to save ourselves and this planet. Highly recommended.
July 22, 2025
Every summer for the past few years, I've made time to learn more about indigenous people by reading a book. This summer, I read Murray Sinclair's memoir, Who we are: 4 questions for a life and a nation.
Murray was a lawyer judge, senator, activist, father. grandfather and friend. His memoir features Indigenous ways of knowledge and storytelling.
I'm impressed and inspired by his lack of negative judgment and his strength of curiosity that guided his life.
His mother died when Murray was very young. His father had difficulty navigating life on his own and became dependent on alcohol. His brother died at a young age. This impacted him in a serious way. He depended so much on his grandmother to navigate life. According to his grandmother, Murray was intended to become a priest (helping others) but after he learned much about psychology and history in high school and then the beginning of university, he didn't want to pursue that calling. Being a lawyer and judge provided an opportunity to spread the message of the painful lives of Indigenous people. He was the chair of the Truth and Reconciliation commission. He is definitely helping others. His grandmother would be proud of his choices.
the 4 questions that guided this memoir and for everyone's life are:
Where do I come from?
Where am I going?
Why am I here?
Who am I?
I have so much to learn.
Murray was a lawyer judge, senator, activist, father. grandfather and friend. His memoir features Indigenous ways of knowledge and storytelling.
I'm impressed and inspired by his lack of negative judgment and his strength of curiosity that guided his life.
His mother died when Murray was very young. His father had difficulty navigating life on his own and became dependent on alcohol. His brother died at a young age. This impacted him in a serious way. He depended so much on his grandmother to navigate life. According to his grandmother, Murray was intended to become a priest (helping others) but after he learned much about psychology and history in high school and then the beginning of university, he didn't want to pursue that calling. Being a lawyer and judge provided an opportunity to spread the message of the painful lives of Indigenous people. He was the chair of the Truth and Reconciliation commission. He is definitely helping others. His grandmother would be proud of his choices.
the 4 questions that guided this memoir and for everyone's life are:
Where do I come from?
Where am I going?
Why am I here?
Who am I?
I have so much to learn.
July 7, 2025
This book is in two parts.
The first is a biography of Sinclair's remarkable life. From humble beginnings, he became a judge, a senator, and the chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). The indigenous part of his life was interwoven with his professional life in away that was fascinating. The reader discovered the indigenous way of life through the indigenous method of storytelling.
The second part of the book is the "What We Have Learned" report created by the TRC. It documents how the white civilized (!) society sought to remove the "savage from the indian" through systematic removal of land, unfair treatment, treaty failures, and of course, seperation of children from their indigenous parents and culture. This latter involved residential schools, which are heavily featured in the report.
It is heavy, heart breaking reading. I had to skip some portions, but in the spirit of truth and reconciliation, I persevered.
I highly recommend this book. Signed a Canadian who belives that History should not be white washed just because it is uncomfortable.
The first is a biography of Sinclair's remarkable life. From humble beginnings, he became a judge, a senator, and the chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). The indigenous part of his life was interwoven with his professional life in away that was fascinating. The reader discovered the indigenous way of life through the indigenous method of storytelling.
The second part of the book is the "What We Have Learned" report created by the TRC. It documents how the white civilized (!) society sought to remove the "savage from the indian" through systematic removal of land, unfair treatment, treaty failures, and of course, seperation of children from their indigenous parents and culture. This latter involved residential schools, which are heavily featured in the report.
It is heavy, heart breaking reading. I had to skip some portions, but in the spirit of truth and reconciliation, I persevered.
I highly recommend this book. Signed a Canadian who belives that History should not be white washed just because it is uncomfortable.
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