A French immersion institution in Selkirk, Manitoba, has undergone a name change to pay tribute to the legacy of the late Murray Sinclair. Formerly known as École Selkirk Junior High, the school has been officially rebranded as École Murray Sinclair Middle School following a special event held on Wednesday.
The decision to rename the school for the 2026-27 school year was approved by the Lord Selkirk School Division in March as a way to honor Murray Sinclair, an Anishinaabe lawyer, judge, and senator who spearheaded the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Niigaan Sinclair, Murray Sinclair’s son, expressed that Selkirk held significant importance for his father and that he would have been deeply honored by the renaming. Sinclair’s profound connection to the community was highlighted during a ceremony marked by traditional drumming and hoop dancing, bringing together the school and local residents to celebrate and reflect on his impactful life and contributions.
The official renaming of the school was met with enthusiastic applause from a full gymnasium, underscoring the approval and appreciation from the school community. Grade 8 students Adrianna Keeler and Brooklyn Christie emphasized the fitting nature of naming the school after Sinclair, citing his inspirational character and significant influence.
In addition to the renaming, Sinclair’s family announced the establishment of a new student award supported by the Murray Sinclair Memorial Fund through the Selkirk Community Foundation. This award aims to promote student education and well-being through engagement in music and sports, reflecting Sinclair’s values and aspirations for younger generations.
Dené Sinclair, Sinclair’s daughter, shared that the award initiative aligns with her father’s commitment to being a compassionate and engaged Anishinaabe individual, encouraging young people to set new goals, explore their identities, and discover their true selves.
Having been born near Selkirk in 1951 and growing up in the area, Murray Sinclair’s ties to the community were deeply rooted. Principal Daryl Loeppky highlighted Sinclair’s academic and athletic achievements during his time at the school, pointing to his outstanding performance both on the basketball court and in the classroom.
The school division emphasized that renaming the institution was not only a tribute to Sinclair’s exceptional career and national contributions but also a recognition of his enduring impact on education, reconciliation, and the pursuit of a fair and just society. The community was actively involved in suggesting names for the school, with Sinclair’s name receiving multiple recommendations and eventual selection.
This renaming marks the second school in the province to be dedicated to Sinclair, following the naming of a French immersion school in Winnipeg’s Sage Creek neighborhood as École Mazina-Giizhik in April, translating to “the One Who Speaks of Pictures in the Sky” in Anishinaabemowin. Murray Sinclair’s humility and focus on others were highlighted by his son, Niigaan, who emphasized his father’s love for connecting with people, especially children.
In 2017, Selkirk also renamed a city park in honor of Murray Sinclair, a gesture that deeply touched him and reflected his desire for community pride in his achievements. The legacy of Murray Sinclair continues to inspire and uplift communities, fostering a spirit of unity and respect for all.
