People across Canada are mourning the loss of Murray Sinclair.

Sinclair, who chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, died Monday in a Winnipeg hospital. He was 73 years old.

“The Honorable Murray Sinclair dedicated his life to repairing Canada’s relationship with Indigenous peoples,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a social media post.

“As chief commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, he challenged us to confront the darkest moments in our history, because he believed we could learn from them and improve. »

Trudeau described Sinclair as a “brilliant legal mind, a champion of Indigenous rights and a trusted leader in our journey toward reconciliation.”

“He will be greatly missed,” the message said.

A former senator and judge, Sinclair was the first Indigenous judge appointed in Manitoba and the second appointed in Canada.

“He leaves behind an invaluable legacy of shining a light on the stories of thousands of residential school survivors,” Governor General Mary Simon said in a statement.

“This defining moment in Canadian history gave rise to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, which initiated positive change for Indigenous communities in all spheres of society.

Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham said Sinclair’s passing was especially sad because the journey he started still continues.

In a statement, Gillingham said Sinclair dedicated his life to public service and brought the truths of the residential school system to life.

“As a Manitoba senator, mentor, elder in residence and advocate for Indigenous languages ​​and traditions, he inspired hope and a sense of possibility,” he said.

“He reminded us, ‘Education got us into this mess, and education will get us out of it.’ His words will continue to guide us, even though reconciliation is a journey that will take generations.

The National Center for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) said Sinclair’s death leaves a gaping hole in the social fabric of our nation.

The NCTR called Sinclair’s commitment to truth and reconciliation “unprecedented,” adding that he fought tirelessly for the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

“His Honor will forever hold a special place at the heart of the NCTR,” he said in a statement.

“A revered elder, his work with survivors laid the foundation for our very existence. »

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) said Sinclair broke barriers and inspired countless people to seek justice.

“Today, we mourn the loss of a hero whose vision and leadership continue to guide us,” CMA Acting Grand Chief Betsey Kennedy said in a statement.

“The Honorable Murray Sinclair’s tireless commitment to justice and truth has left a lasting mark on our nations and communities, and we carry his light as we strive to improve our nations.

A sacred fire to help guide Sinclair’s spiritual home was lit outside the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, according to a statement from the family.

With files from the Canadian Press.