The New Democratic Party (NDP) faces a pivotal moment in Quebec as Alexandre Boulerice steps away from federal politics, leaving a significant vacancy in his Montreal riding. With the party historically struggling to maintain a foothold in the province, newly appointed leader Avi Lewis is embarking on a mission to reinvigorate the NDP’s presence. Over July, he dedicated himself to improving his French language skills and engaging with constituents, hoping to bridge the gap between the party and Quebec’s progressive electorate.
The Historical Context of the NDP in Quebec
The NDP’s relationship with Quebec has often been fraught with complexities. The high point for the party came in 2011, when it secured an unprecedented 59 seats, an outcome that has since felt like an anomaly. Now, as the party grapples with its diminished representation, Lewis acknowledges the hurdles that have historically impeded its progress in the province. He candidly described the situation as “one of the enduring mysteries of Canadian politics,” noting the shared values between the NDP and Quebec voters, particularly concerning environmentalism and social welfare.
Lewis, whose family has deep roots in Montreal and the NDP’s legacy, is acutely aware of the historical challenges. His grandfather, David Lewis, and father, Stephen Lewis, both made their marks in Canadian politics but struggled to resonate with Quebec’s electorate. As he embarks on this journey, he expresses a desire to reconnect with the province, stating, “I think this province is ready for another date with democratic socialism.”
A Personal Commitment to Engagement
This summer, Lewis’s commitment to understanding Quebec has included intensive French lessons—three hours each morning—a stark contrast to his “high-school French from Ontario circa 1982.” He has also immersed himself in local culture, enjoying the popular series *Empathie* and visiting notable sites such as the Plains of Abraham. His experiences have reshaped his perspective on the state of the French language in Quebec, which he believes is vibrant and thriving, contrary to the prevailing political narrative of decline.
“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,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of cultural identity in the political landscape.
Navigating Quebec’s Political Landscape
Lewis’s family history in Quebec adds an intriguing layer to his leadership as he strives to engage with the province’s unique political climate. Language and identity have long been stumbling blocks for the NDP, as David Lewis, who emigrated from Russia, often felt disconnected from Quebec’s mainstream. His political experience, rooted in the English-speaking communities of Canada, contrasts sharply with the demands of Quebec’s electorate.
Navigating sensitive issues like secularism and cultural identity presents a challenge for Lewis. The NDP’s progressive ideals often clash with the province’s more assertive stances on these topics. The party has previously stumbled over these discrepancies, as experienced by Tom Mulcair during the 2015 election. Lewis acknowledges the need for honesty in addressing these differences: “I think there’s huge common ground and we just have to work with that, and just acknowledge the differences, not try to weasel-word around them.”
The Road Ahead for the NDP
As the by-election looms, many within the party are hopeful yet cautious about Lewis’s ability to restore the NDP’s standing in Quebec. Veteran NDP strategist Karl Bélanger, who played a crucial role during the Orange Wave, has voiced concerns over the challenges that lie ahead. He believes that Lewis faces an uphill battle in regaining the party’s former influence, remarking that the new leader starts from a significant distance compared to his predecessors.
Despite the apprehensions, Lewis’s determination to connect with young voters is evident. During a recent visit to La Sala Rossa, an iconic venue steeped in the history of his family, he received a warm welcome from supporters. Yet, even enthusiastic constituents expressed reservations about his language skills, underscoring the importance of cultural fluency in Quebec politics.
Why it Matters
The NDP’s struggle in Quebec is not just a party issue; it reflects broader national conversations about identity, representation, and the evolving political landscape in Canada. As Avi Lewis works to re-establish the party’s relevance, his efforts could have significant implications for the future of progressive politics in Quebec. If he succeeds, it may signal a resurgence of democratic socialism in a region historically resistant to such ideologies, potentially reshaping the political dialogue across the country.
