Museum Unlocked

Presented by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

Celebrating the life and legacy of The Honourable Murray Sinclair

The Manitoba Museum has announced The Honourable Murray Sinclair as distinguished honouree at the 20th Annual Tribute Gala, taking place on Thursday, April 17, 2025. This celebratory evening will recognize his outstanding contributions to justice, reconciliation, and the preservation of Indigenous knowledge and cultures in Canada.

As a trailblazer in the legal field and a prominent advocate for Indigenous rights, The Honourable Murray Sinclair dedicated his career to fostering understanding and advancing truth and reconciliation. As Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC), his leadership played a pivotal role in documenting the history and legacy of residential schools and outlining actionable steps toward a more equitable future.

The Manitoba Museum’s Annual Tribute Gala honours prominent community members and celebrates a multitude of experiences through our theme of Celebrating Community Voices. The Tribute Gala supports the Access for All initiative by removing financial, social, and cultural barriers to visitation. Through your support, the Museum aims to further grow, diversify, and engage new audiences. To continually reflect and assess research, collections, exhibitions, and programs to enhance their relevance to Manitoba’s diverse populations including ethnicity, culture, age, gender, and abilities. Continuing to create a Museum that belongs to all Manitobans.

Past honourees:

James Cohen & Linda McGarva-Cohen (2024), Barb Gamey (2023), Edward & Stella Kennedy (2023), Nadia Thompson (2023), Michael Redhead Champagne (2022), Anne Mahon (2022), Flor Marcelino (2022), Abdikheir Ahmed (2021), Hilary Druxman (2021), Jaimie Isaac (2021), Niigaan Sinclair (2021), Hannah Taylor (2021); Winnipeg Free Press (co-owners Robert Silver & Ronald Stern) (2019); Abdo (Albert) El Tassi & Samira El Tassi (2018); Gregg & Mary Hanson (Ambassadors for Canada 150 Celebration in 2017); Sanford H. Riley (2016); The Winnipeg Foundation (2015); Doug Harvey (2014); Susan Lewis & United Way Winnipeg (2013); Kerry Hawkins (2012); Ambassador Gary Doer (2011); The Chipman Family (2010); Babs & Gail Asper (2009); Kevin & Els Kavanagh (2008); Lawrie Pollard (2007); Murray Taylor & Investors Group Inc. (2006); and George T. Richardson (2005).

2025 Tribute Gala Photo Highlights: Click here to view the full album.