In a heartfelt moment of reflection, Avi Lewis, the newly elected leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), is set to honour the profound legacy of his father, Stephen Lewis, during a memorial service at Toronto Metropolitan University. Stephen Lewis, who passed away just two days after his son’s historic election on March 29, was a towering figure in Canadian politics, known for his advocacy and humanitarian efforts. This gathering not only commemorates his contributions but also offers the Lewis family a platform to share personal anecdotes and the unique qualities that defined Stephen’s life.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Compassion
Avi Lewis recently recounted a poignant conversation he had with his father just before stepping into the role of NDP leader. Feeling the weight of the moment, he expressed his anxiety over the challenges ahead. In response, Stephen offered words of encouragement, reminding his son that he was already well-prepared. “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,” Avi recalled, illustrating the bond between father and son even at such a critical juncture.
Stephen Lewis, who led the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978 and later served as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, was an influential advocate for social justice and public health, most notably through the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which focused on combating HIV/AIDS in Africa. His legacy, marked by a commitment to humanitarian causes, resonates within the family and the broader community.
Commemorating a Complex Man
The memorial service promises to be a deeply personal affair, with contributions from family members, including Avi’s sisters, Ilana Landsberg-Lewis and Jenny Lewis. While a private family funeral preceded this public event, Avi emphasised the importance of sharing a more intimate portrayal of their father. He noted that Stephen was a man of many dimensions, not merely defined by his political accomplishments. “He was a private man without many hobbies or an active social life, but he had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him,” Avi reflected, eager to present the man behind the public persona.
The service will also feature notable speakers, including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella, highlighting Stephen’s extensive influence across various sectors. As the family prepares to speak, Avi acknowledges the emotional weight of the occasion, noting, “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people, and everybody knows it’s actually okay.”
Navigating Political and Personal Terrain
Avi Lewis’s ascent to NDP leader comes amid a tumultuous political landscape, with recent developments such as the departure of Alexandre Boulerice, the party’s only MP from Quebec, posing immediate challenges. Reflecting on the intersection of personal grief and political responsibility, Avi stated, “It won’t be a political moment for me. I’m not naive about the fact that there’s an interest.”
The complexities of grief are palpable, as Avi prepares to navigate his new role while honouring his father’s memory. The weight of expectation looms large, yet the memorial serves as a reminder of the human experience behind political figures, revealing a shared vulnerability.
A Journey from Childhood to Leadership
Born in 1967, Avi Lewis grew up immersed in the political world, often accompanying his father on the campaign trail. Despite his early exposure to politics, he initially gravitated towards journalism, a path influenced by his mother, Michele Landsberg. The interweaving of familial and political legacies is evident in Avi’s journey, with Stephen’s encouragement ringing in his ears when he finally announced his intention to run for leadership: “What took you so long?”
As he steps into his new role, Avi carries forward his father’s commitment to social justice while reflecting on the personal lessons learned throughout his life.
Why it Matters
The memorial service for Stephen Lewis is more than just an homage to a remarkable life; it serves as a poignant reminder of the intertwined nature of personal and public spheres. As Avi Lewis grapples with his father’s legacy, he stands at the helm of a party in need of revitalisation, echoing the hopes and dreams of previous generations. In this moment of mourning, the Lewis family illustrates the profound impact of leadership grounded in compassion, resilience, and the enduring bond of family. As Canada looks to the future, the lessons gleaned from Stephen’s life may well inspire a new wave of advocacy and social change under Avi’s stewardship.