The Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation community has been invited to a Memorial Round Dance in Winnipeg on Jan. 23, 2026, organized by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) to honour the life and legacy of the late Justice Murray Sinclair. The SCO lists the event on its website as a memorial Round Dance to mark Sinclair’s contributions and to support collective healing across southern Manitoba.
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 32 Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations and more than 87,000 citizens in what is now southern Manitoba. The Memorial Round Dance is a traditional ceremony that typically involves drumming, singing and dancing in a circular formation and is used in many Anishinaabe communities as a healing and memorial practice.
Murray Sinclair, who chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission from 2009 to 2015 and helped steer the process that produced the 94 Calls to Action, passed away on Nov. 4, 2024. Tributes have come from across the country; Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization said Sinclair was “a beloved father and grandfather” whose influence would be felt for generations.
SCO’s event listing indicates the gathering will bring together leaders, elders, youth and families from across the territory it represents. Organizers say elders and cultural coordinators will guide ceremony and protocol. SCO often provides supports such as travel assistance for member nations; reporters and community members should contact SCO directly to confirm event logistics, registration, and any travel arrangements.
For event details and to confirm venue, registration and travel supports, contact the Southern Chiefs’ Organization communications office at (204) 946-1869 or check SCO’s events/news page.
This Memorial Round Dance is being framed by organizers as both a chance to mourn and to reaffirm ongoing commitments to reconciliation and cultural revitalization in southern Manitoba.
