In a poignant moment for the New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Lewis family, Avi Lewis has stepped into the role of federal NDP Leader, just days after the passing of his father, the eminent Stephen Lewis. As he navigates this new chapter in his political career, Avi Lewis reflects on the deep personal and professional connections that have shaped his journey.
A Father’s Final Words of Wisdom
Shortly before his election as party leader on March 29, Avi Lewis found himself in a heartfelt conversation with his father, who was gravely ill. “He asked me how I was doing, and I just found myself saying: ‘I’m actually kind of nervous. I’m stressed. It’s a lot that’s coming up,’” recalled Avi. Stephen, who passed away two days later, was known for his political acumen and had been a guiding force during Avi’s campaign. In this particular exchange, he provided reassurance that resonated deeply with his son.
“He said: ‘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.’” In a moment that bridged the generational divide, Avi felt as if he was once again that child seeking comfort from a father—a reminder of the bond they shared.
A Memorial to Remember
The Lewis family gathered to honour Stephen Lewis at a memorial service on Sunday, reflecting on a life dedicated to public service. Stephen led the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978, served as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, and founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which focused on combating HIV/AIDS in Africa. The intimate family funeral earlier this month was described by Avi as “an incredibly intense, powerful, deeply sad and beautiful experience.”
The upcoming memorial at Toronto Metropolitan University promises to be a public celebration of Stephen’s remarkable career, with notable guests including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella. Avi, along with his sisters Ilana and Jenny, aims to provide a more personal insight into their father, acknowledging both his public achievements and his private character.
As Avi noted, “He had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him. I think we want to share some of that to fill out the portrait.”
Balancing Personal Grief and Political Responsibility
Avi Lewis finds himself at a crossroads, balancing the weight of his father’s legacy with the demands of leading the federal NDP. His ascension to leadership comes at a challenging time, particularly following the recent announcement that Alexandre Boulerice, the party’s sole Quebec MP, will be pursuing provincial politics. This unexpected development adds pressure to an already complex political landscape.
Reflecting on the memorial, Avi stated, “It won’t be a political moment for me. I’m not naive about the fact that there’s an interest.” He expressed the common apprehension surrounding such public displays of grief, acknowledging the challenge of maintaining composure while sharing heartfelt memories. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people,” he admitted, underscoring the human aspect of mourning amid public scrutiny.
A Legacy of Political Engagement
Born in 1967, Avi Lewis grew up in a politically charged environment, often joining his father on the campaign trail. He recalls a formative experience from the 1975 election campaign when he and his sister travelled with Stephen. “We were fascinated by Dad’s job,” he said, sharing memories of bee stings and encounters with workers that left a lasting impression.
Although initially pursuing a career in journalism—a path inspired by his mother, Michele Landsberg—Avi eventually embraced the call to politics. Reflecting on his decision to run for party leader, he chuckled at his father’s response: “What took you so long?” This sentiment highlights the enduring legacy of political engagement that Stephen Lewis instilled in his family.
Why it Matters
Avi Lewis’s leadership comes at a critical juncture for the NDP as the party grapples with both internal challenges and shifting public expectations. The interplay between personal grief and professional responsibility is emblematic of the wider struggles faced by political leaders. As Avi steps into his new role, he not only carries the weight of his father’s legacy but also the hopes of a party seeking to redefine its identity in contemporary Canadian politics. His journey underscores the profound impact of familial bonds on political aspirations, reminding us that even in the public sphere, personal narratives remain at the heart of leadership.
