In the wake of his recent election as leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), Avi Lewis is set to honour his father, Stephen Lewis, in a public memorial service this Sunday. The event comes just days after Stephen passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in politics, diplomacy, and humanitarian work.
A Father’s Reassurance
Before taking on the mantle of NDP leader on March 29, Avi Lewis found himself confiding in his father, who was battling terminal cancer. In a poignant conversation, he expressed his anxieties about the challenges ahead. Stephen, a seasoned political figure and former Ontario NDP leader, offered wisdom and calm reassurance.
“He just reassured me like a dad,” Avi recalled. “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.” Such moments reveal the enduring bond between father and son, transcending the pressures of political life.
Remembering a Multifaceted Life
Stephen Lewis enjoyed a storied career, not only leading the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978 but also representing Canada at the United Nations and founding the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which focused on addressing HIV/AIDS in Africa. His influence extended far beyond politics, touching lives in various spheres.
Avi and his siblings, Ilana Landsberg-Lewis and Jenny Lewis, will share personal anecdotes at the memorial, offering an intimate glimpse into the man behind the public persona. “He was a very unusual person, with many hidden talents,” Avi noted, recalling his father’s surprising athleticism as a quarterback and a playful spirit that often emerged in private moments.
A Shared Experience of Grief
As the family prepares for the memorial at Toronto Metropolitan University, they reflect on the emotional weight of such a gathering. Avi expressed the mixed feelings of addressing a crowd during a time of personal loss. “It won’t be a political moment for me,” he stated, acknowledging the underlying public interest in their family’s story.
The challenge of speaking openly about grief is one that many face, as emotions run high in such settings. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people,” he admitted. Yet, he believes that embracing those feelings is an essential part of the healing process.
A Legacy of Service and Dedication
For Avi, stepping into the role of NDP leader is more than a political endeavour; it’s a continuation of a family legacy that includes his grandfather, David Lewis, who also led the NDP. Despite his initial reluctance to enter the political fray, Avi’s journey has come full circle.
Reflecting on his unconventional path, he shared, “I grew up without an interest in politics, veering instead to journalism, my mother’s field.” However, Stephen’s unwavering support ultimately encouraged him to embrace his political ambitions. “What took you so long?” was Stephen’s response when Avi expressed his intention to run for party leadership, highlighting the fatherly pride that accompanied his son’s decision.
Why it Matters
The memorial service for Stephen Lewis serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact individuals can have on both personal and public spheres. As Avi Lewis navigates the complexities of leadership, he carries not just the legacy of his father but also the collective memories of a family that has dedicated itself to advocating for social justice and equality. This moment transcends mere remembrance; it is a celebration of a life committed to making the world a better place. As the NDP looks to the future, the values instilled by Stephen Lewis will undoubtedly resonate within the party’s mission and vision moving forward.
