In a poignant intersection of personal memory and public legacy, Avi Lewis prepares to honour his late father, Stephen Lewis, at a memorial service this Sunday. The former leader of Ontario’s New Democratic Party and a renowned figure in international diplomacy succumbed to cancer just days after Avi was elected as the federal NDP Leader on March 29. As the family prepares to share their reflections, the event promises to celebrate Stephen Lewis’s extensive contributions to politics, humanitarian work, and family life.
A Father’s Guidance Amidst Change
In an emotional conversation prior to his election, Avi Lewis confided in his father about the pressures of his new role. “I’m actually kind of nervous. I’m stressed. It’s a lot that’s coming up,” he admitted during their regular phone calls. Stephen, who was battling cancer, offered a fatherly reassurance that encapsulated his wisdom: “You don’t have to do anything that you haven’t been doing for months. Just keep it up. You’re doing great. Stay calm. Stay clear. You’ve got this.”
This conversation, described by Avi as one where he felt like a child seeking comfort, reflects the profound bond they shared—even amidst the challenges of Stephen’s illness.
A Public Celebration of a Remarkable Life
Following a private family funeral earlier this month, the public memorial will take place at Toronto Metropolitan University, drawing notable attendees including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella. The event will be a platform for Avi and his sisters, Ilana Landsberg-Lewis and Jenny Lewis, to provide a more intimate portrayal of their father, who was known for his impactful work in politics, particularly as an advocate for HIV/AIDS in Africa through the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
Avi remarked on the richness of his father’s character, recalling hidden talents and playful nuances that shaped his upbringing. He reminisced about a rare moment when Stephen displayed his athletic prowess, effortlessly throwing a perfect spiral football pass that caught Avi by surprise. “He never did it again. He never did it before that,” he noted, illustrating the complexity of a man who balanced public life with private joys.
Navigating Grief in the Public Eye
The impending memorial is not without its emotional weight for the family. Avi candidly expressed the apprehension that often accompanies public displays of grief. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people,” he said, acknowledging the universal nature of mourning. However, he also recognised that these moments are vital for healing.
As he steps into the spotlight as NDP Leader, Avi Lewis finds himself grappling with both personal loss and the weight of political responsibility. Just as he embraces the memory of his father, he must navigate the challenges of leadership, including a recent setback with the announcement that Alexandre Boulerice, the party’s only MP from Quebec, is departing for provincial politics.
A Legacy of Political Engagement
Avi’s journey into politics, despite his initial resistance, seems almost preordained. Born in 1967, he was surrounded by political discourse from a young age, even travelling with his father during the 1975 campaign. “We were fascinated by Dad’s job,” he recalled, reminiscing about experiences that left lasting impressions, like encountering workers at a pulp mill or being stung by a bee while campaigning.
Reflecting on his own path, Avi Lewis once dismissed questions about his political future, only to find himself eventually following in his father’s footsteps. When he finally broached the subject of running for leadership with Stephen, his father’s response was both humorous and encouraging: “What took you so long?”
Why it Matters
The upcoming memorial for Stephen Lewis is not merely a farewell to a towering figure in Canadian politics; it is also a testament to the profound influence of familial relationships in shaping political identities. As Avi Lewis navigates the complexities of his new role, the lessons learned from his father’s life and legacy will undoubtedly inform his leadership style and vision for the NDP. In a time when political discourse can often feel disconnected, this moment serves as a reminder of the human elements that underpin public service and the enduring impact of personal connections in the world of politics.