In a poignant moment for the Lewis family, Avi Lewis steps into the role of federal NDP Leader just days after the passing of his father, Stephen Lewis. The former Ontario NDP chief and esteemed diplomat succumbed to cancer shortly after his son’s historic election on March 29. As Avi grapples with the duality of personal loss and public expectation, he prepares to honour his father’s multifaceted legacy in a memorial service set for this Sunday.
A Father’s Wisdom in Times of Change
In the lead-up to his election, Avi Lewis sought counsel from his father, who was not only a prominent political figure but also a source of personal support. In a recent conversation, Avi expressed his apprehensions about the daunting responsibilities that lay ahead. Stephen, despite his own health struggles, provided reassurance, reminding his son, “You don’t have to do anything that you haven’t been doing for months. Just keep it up. You’re doing great.”
This father-son exchange encapsulated the deep bond they shared, even as Stephen faced his final days. “I felt like a kid being reassured by a parent,” said Avi, reflecting on their conversation. As the family prepares to gather at Toronto Metropolitan University, they will remember Stephen not just for his political accomplishments, but for the personal touch he brought to their lives.
A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy
Stephen Lewis’s political career spanned decades, including a significant tenure as the leader of the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978. His contributions to Canada and the world extended beyond domestic politics; he served as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations and founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation, focusing on HIV/AIDS initiatives in Africa. This Sunday’s memorial will feature notable speakers, including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella, who will honour Stephen’s impact on society.
Avi Lewis, along with his sisters, Ilana Landsberg-Lewis and Jenny Lewis, will share their memories of a father who was both a public figure and a private man. Despite his significant public roles, Avi recalls a father who possessed a playful spirit and a variety of hidden talents. “He had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him,” he reflected, eager to present a fuller picture of the man behind the political persona.
Navigating Grief and Public Life
As Avi steps into his new role, he faces not only the weight of his father’s legacy but also the immediate challenges of leadership. The recent announcement of Alexandre Boulerice’s departure from the NDP to pursue provincial politics adds another layer of complexity to his position. Even amidst such pressures, Avi emphasises that the upcoming memorial will not be a political spectacle.
“It won’t be a political moment for me. I’m not naive about the fact that there’s an interest,” he stated, acknowledging the public’s curiosity while prioritising a personal remembrance. He admits there’s an inherent anxiety surrounding public displays of emotion, yet he finds comfort in the idea that shared grief can unite those in attendance. “If you’re lucky, you just get swept up in it,” he noted.
A Journey from Childhood to Leadership
Avi Lewis’s political journey is deeply intertwined with his family history. Born in 1967, he grew up surrounded by the political fervour of his father’s career. He fondly recalls his childhood experiences on the campaign trail, where he and his sister were captivated by their father’s work. “We were fascinated by Dad’s job,” he reminisced, recalling moments that shaped his early understanding of politics.
Interestingly, despite his upbringing, Avi initially pursued journalism over a political career, often rejecting media inquiries about his future in politics. “I look back at that now and can’t help laughing,” he said, especially when recalling his father’s reaction upon hearing of his decision to run for NDP leader: “What took you so long?”
Why it Matters
Avi Lewis’s ascension to the NDP leadership represents not only a continuation of a family legacy but also a significant moment for Canadian politics as a whole. With the weight of his father’s impactful career behind him, Avi stands at a crossroads where personal mourning and public responsibility intersect. As he navigates the complexities of leadership, he aims to honour Stephen Lewis’s commitment to social justice while forging his own path. In doing so, he embodies the enduring spirit of advocacy and public service that has characterised the Lewis family for generations.
