In a poignant moment for Canadian politics, Avi Lewis stepped into the role of federal leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) on March 29, just two days before the passing of his father, Stephen Lewis. The elder Lewis, a revered figure in both political and humanitarian circles, left behind a legacy that intertwines personal history with national significance. As Avi Lewis embarks on this new chapter, he reflects on the profound influence his father had on his journey.
A Personal Connection Amidst Public Duty
Avi Lewis, who recently assumed leadership of the NDP, confided in his father during the intense lead-up to his election. “I’m actually kind of nervous. I’m stressed. It’s a lot that’s coming up,” he revealed during one of their weekly phone conversations. Stephen Lewis, facing his own battle with cancer, offered the kind of reassurance that only a parent could. “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,” he encouraged. This exchange encapsulates the bond between father and son, a relationship marked by both personal and political milestones.
Honouring a Legacy
The Lewis family is set to commemorate Stephen Lewis at a memorial service this Sunday, where they will share personal anecdotes and reflect on his significant contributions to Canadian society. Stephen Lewis, who led the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978, later served as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations and founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which focused on combating HIV/AIDS in Africa. The event, hosted at Toronto Metropolitan University, will feature prominent figures, including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella, alongside Avi and his sisters, Ilana Landsberg-Lewis and Jenny Lewis.
Avi intends to present a more nuanced portrait of his father, revealing the hidden dimensions of a man who often appeared serious in public life. “He had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him,” Avi noted, aiming to share these facets to enrich the public’s understanding of Stephen Lewis.
Navigating Challenges as a New Leader
As Avi Lewis embraces his new responsibilities, he faces the complexities of leadership in a dynamic political climate. One immediate challenge emerged with the announcement that Alexandre Boulerice, the NDP’s sole MP from Quebec, would be departing for provincial politics. This unexpected shift adds pressure to an already demanding role, as Lewis seeks to solidify his leadership and guide the party through turbulent waters.
Despite these challenges, Lewis emphasised that the memorial service is not merely a political event for him. “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 emotional weight of the occasion. He expressed the common apprehension around public grieving but recognised its necessity. “It’s totally important and appropriate,” he remarked, revealing the delicate balance he must maintain between personal loss and public duty.
A Legacy of Political Engagement
Avi Lewis’s journey into politics has roots in his childhood, having grown up in a household steeped in political discourse. He recalls travelling alongside his father during the 1975 campaign, a time when his fascination with politics began to take shape. Yet, it wasn’t until recently that he considered a political career himself. “I look back at that now and can’t help laughing because when I told Dad I was going to run for leader about a year ago, his first reaction was, ‘What took you so long?’” This sentiment underscores the familial legacy of political engagement that Avi now carries forward.
Why it Matters
The transition of leadership within the NDP at this juncture is not just a change in personnel; it signifies the intersection of personal history and political legacy. Avi Lewis steps into a role shaped by the values and teachings of his father, a man whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Canadian society. As he navigates the complexities of leadership, the memory of Stephen Lewis serves both as a guide and a source of inspiration. The upcoming memorial will not only honour a remarkable individual but also illuminate the values that will shape the future direction of the NDP under Avi’s stewardship.
