Tributes are coming in for the life and work of a well-known Aboriginal leader.
Jim Sinclair died on Friday at the age of 79.
He was born in Punnichy and spent much of his early years in Metis politics — eventually becoming president of what is now known as the Metis Nation – Saskatchewan.
The president of the Metis National Council, Clem Chartier, says Sinclair’s childhood helped shape his understanding of the Metis struggle:
“He grew up on the road allowance, along with Metis people. He knew the struggles of the Metis. Initially, the struggles of the non-status Indians — Indian people without rights — and the Metis people were the same, same social and economic issues. And, basicially, Jim served both communities very well.”
In addition to his work with the Metis, Sinclair also helped establish the group that would later become the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples.
He also played an instrumental role in getting the Metis recognized in Canada’s Constitution.
CAP National Chief Betty Ann Lavallee says Sinclair’s “contributions in bringing Aboriginal rights to the forefront of Canadian politics will remain nothing short of historic”.
Lavallee says, in the absence of his leadership, the word ‘Metis’ may have never been recognized in the Constitution as it is today.
Metis Nation – Saskatchewan President Robert Doucette says the Metis Nation has lost one of the most significant leaders in its history.
Doucette notes Sinclair’s accomplishments include the creation of many well-established Metis institutions, including the Gabriel Dumont Institute and the Provincial Metis Housing Corporation.
A wake for Sinclair will be held at Regina’s Banner Hall tomorrow night at 7:00 p.m.
A funeral is set for Thursday morning at the same venue.