Avi Lewis, the newly elected leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), finds himself navigating the complexities of his new role while reflecting on the profound impact his late father, Stephen Lewis, had on not only his life but also on Canadian politics. Just days before Stephen’s passing on March 31, 2023, after a battle with cancer, the two shared a heartfelt conversation that resonated deeply with Avi, offering both reassurance and a moment of familial connection amidst the political whirlwind.
A Son’s Tribute Amidst Political Challenges
In the lead-up to his election as NDP leader, Avi Lewis confided in his father about the stresses of campaign life. The candid conversation revealed a bond that transcended the political arena, where Stephen Lewis, a formidable figure in Canadian politics and a former NDP leader himself, provided fatherly wisdom in a moment of vulnerability. “He just reassured me… You’re doing great. Stay calm. Stay clear. You’ve got this,” Avi recalled, highlighting the enduring influence of his father’s guidance even as he faced his own health struggles.
Avi and his siblings are set to honour Stephen’s legacy at a memorial service at Toronto Metropolitan University, which promises to be an occasion of reflection and celebration. Esteemed speakers, including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella, will join the family in acknowledging Stephen Lewis’s remarkable contributions to politics, diplomacy, and humanitarian efforts, particularly in addressing HIV/AIDS in Africa through the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
Remembering a Multifaceted Man
The memorial will serve as a personal insight into the life of Stephen Lewis, who led the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978 before taking on the role of Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations. It was a path marked by advocacy for social justice and a relentless pursuit of equality, yet Avi is eager to share a more intimate portrayal of his father, one that encompasses his playful and adventurous spirit. “He had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him,” Avi said, indicating that while Stephen was a public figure, he also possessed a private life filled with unexpected dimensions.
Avi’s recollections include a vivid memory of his father’s athletic prowess—a moment when Stephen threw a perfect spiral football pass during a casual outing. “It was a shock. He never did it again. He never did it before that,” Avi reflected, underscoring the many layers of his father’s character that often went unseen by the public.
Navigating the NDP Landscape
As Avi Lewis steps into his leadership role amid this emotional backdrop, he faces the immediate challenge of unifying the party and addressing recent developments, including the unexpected departure of Alexandre Boulerice, the NDP’s only MP from Quebec, to pursue provincial politics. Despite these hurdles, Avi is determined to focus on the personal aspect of the upcoming memorial, distancing it from his political responsibilities. “It won’t be a political moment for me,” he stated, acknowledging the duality of his experience as both a grieving son and a political leader.
Reflecting on his childhood, Avi admits that while he initially distanced himself from the political realm, he is now poised to carry forward the torch in a legacy steeped in activism and public service. His father’s influence is evident not only in his career choices but also in his understanding of the emotional complexities that accompany such a public life.
The Weight of Legacy
As Avi prepares to speak at the memorial alongside his sisters, he acknowledges the challenge of sharing their father’s story while grappling with their own emotions in front of an audience. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people, and everybody knows it’s actually okay,” he noted, indicating the universal struggle with grief that many can relate to.
Avi’s journey into politics, catalysed in part by his father’s legacy, marks a significant moment not only for him personally but for the NDP as they seek to redefine their narrative in a changing political landscape. His rise to leadership comes at a time when the party is in need of revitalisation, and his familial ties to Stephen Lewis provide a unique perspective that may resonate with voters seeking authenticity and compassion in their leaders.
Why it Matters
Avi Lewis’s ascent to the helm of the NDP is not merely a continuation of a family legacy; it represents a critical juncture for the party as they navigate contemporary political challenges. As he embraces the dual roles of son and leader, his personal journey reflects broader themes of resilience, familial bonds, and the enduring impact of legacy. In a time when political discourse can often feel disconnected from human experiences, Avi’s commitment to honouring his father’s memory while forging his own path could offer a much-needed spark for the NDP, encouraging a new generation to engage in the political process with heart and conviction.
