In a poignant moment of reflection, newly-elected federal NDP Leader Avi Lewis prepares to honour his father, the late Stephen Lewis, at a memorial service that celebrates the latter’s extensive contributions to politics and humanitarian efforts. As Avi navigates the early days of his leadership, he draws strength from the wisdom of his father, who passed away just two days after his election on March 29.
A Father’s Guidance in a Time of Transition
Shortly before taking on the mantle of leadership, Avi Lewis found himself in a candid conversation with his father. In a moment of vulnerability, he expressed his apprehensions about the challenges ahead. “I’m actually kind of nervous. I’m stressed. It’s a lot that’s coming up,” he shared during their weekly discussions. Stephen Lewis, who was battling cancer, provided comforting reassurance, imparting his decades of political experience. “You don’t have to do anything that you haven’t been doing for months. Just keep it up. You’re doing great,” his father advised, offering a calming presence during a turbulent time.
This father-son exchange encapsulates the deep bond they shared, even as Stephen faced his final days. At 88, Stephen continued to inspire his son, showcasing the remarkable strength of familial support amidst life’s trials.
Remembering a Political Icon
The memorial service, scheduled at Toronto Metropolitan University, promises to be a heartfelt tribute to Stephen Lewis’s multifaceted career. Known for leading the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978, his influence extended far beyond provincial politics. He served as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations and founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation, focusing on AIDS advocacy in Africa.
Avi Lewis and his sisters, Ilana and Jenny, aim to share a more personal narrative of their father during the service. “He was a very unusual person, with many hidden talents,” Avi recalled, reminiscing about moments that painted a fuller picture of Stephen—a man known not just for his public persona, but for his playful spirit. “He had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him,” he added, hoping to convey the depth of his father’s character to the attendees.
Navigating Grief in the Public Eye
Avi acknowledges the complexity of grieving in such a public forum. “It won’t be a political moment for me,” he stated, recognising the inevitable interest surrounding the event. He expressed a common concern about emotional vulnerability when speaking in front of a crowd. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people,” he noted, adding that, when the time comes, they will likely be swept up in the moment.
As he prepares for this tribute, Avi Lewis finds himself balancing the weight of personal loss with the responsibilities of his new role. The recent announcement of Alexandre Boulerice, the NDP’s only Quebec MP, transitioning to provincial politics adds another layer of challenge to his leadership. Nevertheless, he is determined to honour his father’s legacy while addressing the pressing issues facing the party.
A Legacy of Commitment to Social Justice
Reflecting on Stephen Lewis’s impact, Avi recalls the formative experiences of his youth, which were steeped in political life. Growing up in a politically active household, he witnessed his father’s campaigns, including a memorable moment when he was stung by a bee while on the campaign trail. These vivid memories illustrate the profound influence Stephen had on his children, instilling a sense of social responsibility that echoes in Avi’s current pursuits.
As he embarks on this journey in leadership, Avi Lewis is mindful of the legacy left by his father. He acknowledges the complexities of their relationship, especially as he transitions from journalism to politics—an arena he once distanced himself from. Looking back, he now chuckles at his father’s reaction to his political aspirations: “What took you so long?”
Why it Matters
The memorial service for Stephen Lewis is not just a tribute to a towering figure in Canadian politics; it represents a moment of introspection for a new generation of leaders. In honouring his father’s legacy, Avi Lewis stands at a critical juncture for the NDP, navigating both personal grief and the broader challenges facing the party. As he seeks to invigorate Canadian politics with the spirit and values instilled in him by his father, this moment serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of familial bonds and the legacies that shape our public lives.