Avi Lewis, recently elected leader of the federal New Democratic Party, finds himself navigating a complex mix of personal and political responsibilities following the passing of his father, Stephen Lewis. The elder Lewis, a towering figure in Canadian politics and diplomacy, succumbed to cancer just two days after his son’s election on March 29. As Avi Lewis prepares to honour his father’s legacy at an upcoming memorial service, he grapples with the emotional weight of his new leadership role and the profound influence his father had on his life and career.
A Father’s Wisdom in a Time of Transition
In the lead-up to his election, Avi Lewis frequently consulted his father for guidance, seeking reassurance amidst the pressures of the campaign. “I’m actually kind of nervous. I’m stressed. It’s a lot that’s coming up,” he expressed during one of their weekly calls. Stephen Lewis, despite battling terminal illness, provided both comfort and pragmatic advice, encouraging his son to remain calm and steadfast. “You don’t have to do anything that you haven’t been doing for months. Just keep it up. You’re doing great,” he reassured, a reflection of the deep bond they shared.
Stephen Lewis’s remarkable life spanned several decades, during which he shaped public policy and championed social justice. He led the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978, served as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, and founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which addressed the HIV/AIDS crisis in Africa. His passing leaves a considerable legacy, one that will be celebrated in a public memorial set for Sunday at Toronto Metropolitan University.
A Public Tribute to a Private Man
While a private family funeral took place earlier this month, the forthcoming memorial aims to publicly honour Stephen Lewis’s contributions to politics and humanitarian efforts. Esteemed guests will include Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella. Avi Lewis, along with his sisters Ilana and Jenny, intends to share personal anecdotes, painting a fuller picture of their father beyond his public persona. “He was a very unusual person, with many hidden talents,” Avi noted, recalling fond memories of his father’s unexpected athleticism and playful spirit.
The siblings are keen to balance their reflections on Stephen Lewis’s public life with intimate glimpses of the man they knew personally. “He had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him,” said Avi, who aims to convey the warmth and complexity of their father’s character during the memorial service.
Navigating Leadership Challenges
As Avi Lewis embarks on his new role, he faces immediate challenges, including the recent announcement that Alexandre Boulerice, the NDP’s sole MP from Quebec, is departing for provincial politics. This unexpected development adds pressure as Lewis seeks to unify the party and outline a clear vision moving forward. He remains aware of the scrutiny that accompanies his leadership, particularly in light of his father’s illustrious career.
Despite the weight of expectation, Avi Lewis is determined to approach the memorial with emotional honesty, acknowledging the vulnerability that comes with grief. “There’s sometimes a dread around these moments,” he admitted. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people, and everybody knows it’s actually okay.” This sentiment reflects not only his personal journey but also the broader human experience of loss.
A Legacy of Political Engagement
Avi Lewis’s journey into politics was not a foregone conclusion. Born in 1967, he initially gravitated towards journalism, inspired by his mother, Michele Landsberg, a prominent journalist herself. He recalls being fascinated by his father’s political career during the 1975 campaign, where he and his sister joined their father on the campaign bus. However, he initially resisted the lure of politics, only to find himself drawn back to the family legacy as he contemplated running for party leadership. “What took you so long?” was Stephen Lewis’s playful response upon hearing of his son’s decision to pursue a political career.
As he steps into the role of federal NDP leader, Avi Lewis carries not only the weight of his father’s legacy but also the hopes of a party seeking to reinvigorate its presence on the national stage. His leadership will be scrutinised as he navigates the complexities of Canadian politics in a rapidly changing environment.
Why it Matters
The passing of Stephen Lewis marks the end of an era, yet his legacy endures through his children and the principles he championed throughout his life. Avi Lewis’s ascent to leadership serves as a poignant reminder of the personal connections that underpin political narratives. As he seeks to honour his father’s memory while forging his own path, the interplay between personal and public life becomes a critical element of his leadership journey. This moment is not just about the NDP; it is a reflection of how familial legacies shape political landscapes, highlighting the importance of compassion, resilience, and the enduring impact of mentorship in the world of politics.
