In the wake of his recent election as the leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), Avi Lewis is preparing to commemorate the life of his father, Stephen Lewis, a towering figure in Canadian politics and advocacy. Stephen Lewis passed away just two days after Avi’s election on March 29, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that spans decades of public service. This Sunday, a memorial service will take place at Toronto Metropolitan University, honouring Stephen’s illustrious career while allowing his family to share personal anecdotes about the man behind the public persona.
A Father’s Guidance During Transition
As Avi Lewis embarked on his own political journey, he found himself seeking wisdom from Stephen, who had been a constant source of support throughout his campaign. In a candid moment shared between father and son, Avi expressed his anxieties about the upcoming responsibilities. Stephen, who was battling cancer, provided reassurance from his wealth of experience, urging his son to remain calm and to trust in his abilities. “You don’t have to do anything that you haven’t been doing for months. Just keep it up. You’re doing great,” Stephen told Avi, reminding him that despite the weight of expectation, he was well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
A Life of Service and Advocacy
Stephen Lewis’s contributions to Canadian society are profound. 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 has made significant strides in addressing HIV/AIDS in Africa. This Sunday’s memorial will not only celebrate Stephen’s political achievements but also reflect the personal connections he forged throughout his life. Avi, along with his sisters Ilana Landsberg-Lewis and Jenny Lewis, will share intimate stories that reveal a more nuanced picture of their father beyond his public accomplishments.
Avi recalls a moment from his childhood that captures Stephen’s hidden talents. “He fired a perfect spiral like a laser, hit me in the chest,” he reminisced, recalling a time when his father surprised him with an unexpected display of athleticism. “It was a shock,” he admitted, “and he never did it again.” This anecdote highlights the multifaceted nature of Stephen Lewis, a man who, despite his public roles, cherished private moments with his family.
Navigating Grief in the Public Eye
The upcoming memorial service presents a unique challenge for the Lewis family, particularly for Avi, who is stepping into a leadership role within the NDP. He acknowledges the emotional weight of the occasion, noting that while it will not be a political moment for him, the convergence of personal grief and public interest is unavoidable. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people, and everybody knows it’s actually okay,” he reflected, emphasising the importance of allowing oneself to grieve openly.
As he prepares for this moment, Avi is conscious of his father’s influence on his own political journey. Born in 1967, Avi grew up in the political sphere, witnessing firsthand his father’s campaigns and the impact of his work. Despite initially pursuing a career in journalism, Avi’s path eventually led him back to politics, a move that Stephen had anticipated with a blend of pride and humour. “What took you so long?” was his father’s response when Avi announced his intention to run for leadership, showcasing the strong bond between them.
The Future of the NDP
As Avi Lewis takes the helm of the federal NDP, he faces a landscape filled with challenges, including the recent announcement that Alexandre Boulerice, the party’s sole MP from Quebec, is leaving to pursue provincial politics. This development underscores the complexities of leading a political party in a rapidly changing environment. Avi’s leadership will be pivotal in shaping the NDP’s direction and addressing the pressing issues facing Canadians.
Why it Matters
The memorial service for Stephen Lewis is more than a tribute; it is an opportunity for the family to celebrate his legacy while navigating their own grief. As Avi Lewis steps into a leadership role, he carries not only his father’s political legacy but also his values of compassion and advocacy. This moment serves as a reminder of the personal connections that underpin political life, illustrating how the legacies of our predecessors shape our paths as we move forward. The Lewis family’s reflections will undoubtedly resonate with many, fostering a deeper understanding of the human stories behind the political headlines.
