In a bid to reverse the New Democratic Party’s waning presence in Quebec, newly elected leader Avi Lewis is immersing himself in the province’s culture and language. With a by-election on the horizon following Alexandre Boulerice’s departure from federal politics, Lewis is working to rekindle the enthusiasm that once saw the NDP secure a remarkable 59 seats in the province during the 2011 Orange Wave. His efforts come amid a backdrop of historical challenges for the party, which has repeatedly struggled to resonate with Quebec voters despite shared progressive values.
Lewis’ Summer of Engagement
Over the course of July, Avi Lewis dedicated his time to enhancing his French language skills while engaging directly with constituents. He described this immersive experience as both a privilege and a necessity, given the party’s historic struggle to connect with the Francophone electorate. “It is a mystery, and I hope I can unknot it,” Lewis remarked, acknowledging the complexity of the NDP’s relationship with Quebec. “I think this province is ready for another date with democratic socialism.”
The urgency of his mission is underscored by the party’s long-standing absence from the political scene in Quebec. The NDP has often found itself on the periphery, despite aligning closely with the province’s priorities regarding environmental sustainability and social equity.
Cultural Immersion and Political Challenges
Lewis’s summer activities extended beyond language lessons; he actively sought to deepen his understanding of Quebec’s rich cultural tapestry. From enjoying popular local dramas to visiting historical sites, he has embraced various aspects of Quebecois life. “I have a lot of unabashed envy for the fact that protecting a language has meant maintaining cultural protections that have long since been dismantled in the rest of Canada,” Lewis reflected, highlighting the vibrancy of French culture in the province.
However, the NDP’s challenges in Quebec are deeply rooted in a historical context that complicates their political narrative. The journey of Lewis’s family within the NDP illustrates the party’s ongoing struggle to gain traction in a region where they have often been viewed as outsiders. His grandfather, David Lewis, and father, Stephen Lewis, both made significant contributions to the party but did not make substantial inroads with Quebec voters. “David Lewis was not considered a Quebecker by Quebeckers,” noted long-time NDP member Karl Bélanger, pointing to the ongoing identity crisis that has plagued the party.
Navigating Sensitive Issues
As Lewis endeavours to connect with Quebec’s electorate, he faces the delicate task of addressing contentious issues such as secularism and multiculturalism. Quebeckers’ strong stance on secularism can clash with the NDP’s commitment to multicultural values, a challenge that previous leaders like Tom Mulcair have navigated with mixed results. Lewis has expressed a desire to find common ground while recognising the differences that exist within the province’s political discourse. “We’re allowed to disagree in a democracy,” he asserted, indicating his intention to foster constructive dialogue rather than shying away from divisive topics.
Despite his optimistic outlook, some veteran party members remain sceptical about the NDP’s immediate prospects in Quebec. Bélanger cautioned that Lewis’s approach may be overly optimistic, particularly regarding the NDP’s ability to reclaim Boulerice’s seat. “He’s starting from a distance compared to where Layton was and especially compared to where Mulcair was,” he pointed out, highlighting the steep uphill battle that lies ahead.
A Warm Reception, but Lingering Concerns
During a recent visit to La Sala Rossa, a music venue with ties to his family’s history, Lewis received a warm welcome from young supporters. However, even those who are naturally inclined to support him voiced concerns about his command of the French language. “I’m worried about Quebec for him—his French isn’t good,” remarked Palden Khe-Changsoo, a devoted NDP voter. This sentiment underscores the critical importance of language proficiency in building trust and rapport with Quebec’s electorate.
Why it Matters
The NDP’s future in Quebec hinges on Avi Lewis’s ability to bridge the gap between historical challenges and contemporary expectations. As he seeks to revitalise the party’s connection with a province that has historically shown ambivalence towards it, the stakes are high. The upcoming by-election will serve as a litmus test for his leadership and the NDP’s viability in Quebec. Should Lewis succeed, it could mark a pivotal moment for the party, potentially reigniting a progressive movement that resonates deeply with Quebeckers. Conversely, failure to make significant strides could entrench the NDP’s status as a marginal player in one of Canada’s most politically dynamic regions.
