Avi Lewis, the newly elected leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), is poised to honour his father, Stephen Lewis, at a memorial service that celebrates the elder Lewis’s extraordinary contributions to politics and social justice. This event, scheduled for Sunday at Toronto Metropolitan University, follows a private family funeral earlier this month and is expected to draw an array of notable figures from the political and legal spheres.
A Father’s Last Words
In the days leading up to his leadership election, Avi found himself in a candid conversation with his father, who was gravely ill with cancer. During this exchange, he expressed his anxieties about the challenges ahead. “I’m actually kind of nervous,” Avi confided to Stephen, who, despite facing his own mortality, offered comforting words of encouragement. “You don’t have to do anything that you haven’t been doing for months. Just keep it up. You’re doing great,” he advised. This paternal reassurance seemed to transcend the generational divide, momentarily making Avi feel like the child seeking guidance.
Stephen Lewis passed away just two days after Avi’s ascension to the NDP leadership on March 29, leaving a legacy that spans decades of political engagement and humanitarian work. The forthcoming memorial, which will include tributes from prominent figures including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella, aims to encapsulate his multifaceted career.
A Life of Service and Advocacy
Stephen Lewis’s impact on Canadian politics is underscored by his tenure as the leader of the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978, along with his subsequent role as Canada’s UN ambassador. He also founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation, focusing on HIV/AIDS initiatives in Africa, a testament to his commitment to global health and justice. Avi and his siblings, Ilana and Jenny, will share personal anecdotes that reveal the man behind the public persona, reflecting on his athleticism and playful spirit—a side of their father that often went unrecognised.
Avi recalls a surprising moment from his youth when Stephen, typically reserved, demonstrated his football prowess by throwing a perfect spiral that nearly knocked his son off his feet. “He never did it again,” Avi shared, adding a touch of humour to the memory. This glimpse into the private life of a man who devoted himself to public service illustrates the many dimensions of Stephen Lewis, a figure who was both formidable and endearing.
Navigating Grief and Leadership
As the NDP leader, Avi Lewis faces a myriad of challenges in the political arena, not least of which is the recent announcement of Alexandre Boulerice’s departure from federal politics to pursue opportunities at the provincial level. Despite these hurdles, Avi is determined to balance his personal grief with his professional obligations. He acknowledges the emotional weight of the memorial service, noting that it will not be a political event for him but rather a moment of shared remembrance. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people, and everybody knows it’s actually okay,” he reflected.
Growing up in a politically active household, Avi was initially indifferent to politics, favouring journalism—his mother Michele Landsberg’s profession. However, the call to leadership came as a surprise to him, as he recalls his father’s reaction when he eventually expressed his intention to run: “What took you so long?”
Bridging Generations
The upcoming memorial service not only serves as a tribute to Stephen Lewis’s life but also as a poignant moment for Avi to reflect on the legacy he wishes to uphold as NDP leader. The ceremony provides a unique opportunity for the Lewis family to present a unified front, sharing their collective memories and insights while inviting the public into their personal grief.
Avi’s journey from a politically detached youth to a prominent political figure mirrors the complexities of familial and political legacies. As he navigates this new chapter, he carries forward the values instilled in him by his father, honouring both his personal and public commitments.
Why it Matters
This memorial is more than just a farewell to Stephen Lewis; it represents a pivotal moment in Canadian politics as Avi Lewis steps into his role as leader of the NDP. The blending of personal loss with public duty encapsulates the challenges faced by those in leadership positions, particularly as they strive to balance emotional vulnerability with political expectations. As the NDP seeks to redefine its identity and impact under Avi’s leadership, the memory of Stephen Lewis will undoubtedly resonate, influencing the party’s direction and the broader Canadian political landscape.
