Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to pay tribute to Murray Sinclair.
Murray Sinclair strengthened the fabric of this country in ways that few others have. I had the true honour of working closely with him while at Canadian Heritage. As a young staffer, I was in awe of him. I had the true honour of seeing his kindness, how measured he was and that he was wise beyond words. He was instrumental in providing us with guidance on the creation of legislation to protect indigenous languages. I have never seen a public figure so universally revered as he was.
Senator Sinclair is nothing short of a national hero. Most notably, his work leading the national Truth and Reconciliation Commission changed the trajectory of this country in the most important of ways. His work to help heal and propel Canada forward will serve us well for decades to come.
As a member of Parliament from Manitoba, it is with particular pride and gratitude that I thank Senator Sinclair for helping us to find the best versions of ourselves in service of this beautiful country.