Avi Lewis, the newly elected leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), is navigating a significant transition not only in his political career but also in his personal life, following the recent passing of his father, Stephen Lewis. The elder Lewis, a towering figure in Canadian politics and social advocacy, passed away just two days after his son assumed leadership on March 29. As Avi prepares to honour his father’s legacy during a forthcoming memorial service, he reflects on their close bond and the lessons imparted through their conversations during the campaign.
A Generational Legacy
In the weeks leading up to his election, Avi Lewis frequently sought his father’s counsel. The younger Lewis described a moment of vulnerability during one phone call, admitting to his father, “I’m actually kind of nervous. I’m stressed. It’s a lot that’s coming up.” Stephen, despite battling terminal cancer, offered comforting words, encouraging his son to remain calm and confident. “You’re doing great. Stay calm. Stay clear. You’ve got this,” he reassured, providing a poignant reminder of the enduring support a parent can offer, regardless of age.
Stephen Lewis’s illustrious career spanned several decades, including leadership of the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978 and serving as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations. He was also renowned for founding the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS in Africa. His passing marks the end of an era in Canadian public life.
A Public Farewell
A memorial service planned for Sunday at Toronto Metropolitan University aims to celebrate Stephen Lewis’s extensive contributions to politics and social justice. The event is set to feature notable speakers including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella. Avi Lewis, alongside his sisters, Ilana Landsberg-Lewis and Jenny Lewis, will provide personal reflections on their father’s life, aiming to share a more intimate portrait of the man behind the public persona.
Avi recalls his father’s unique qualities, describing him as a private individual who preferred the company of his family over a bustling social life. “He had many dimensions, including an athletic, adventurous, and playful side,” Avi noted. He hopes to convey these lesser-known aspects of Stephen’s character, showing that beyond his political achievements, there existed a man with a delightful sense of humour and a zest for life.
Navigating Leadership Amid Loss
Stepping into the role of NDP leader amid such personal turmoil presents unique challenges for Avi Lewis. The weight of his father’s legacy looms large as he embraces his new responsibilities in Ottawa, a role that has already seen unexpected developments, such as the recent announcement that Alexandre Boulerice, the party’s only MP from Quebec, will depart for provincial politics.
Avi acknowledges the emotional complexity surrounding the memorial service. “It won’t be a political moment for me,” he stated, recognising the inherent pressures and public interest in his family’s grief. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people, and everybody knows it’s actually okay.” His candidness reflects a broader struggle many face during times of loss, where public mourning can intertwine with personal vulnerability.
Embracing His Roots
Born in 1967, Avi Lewis was raised in a politically charged atmosphere, with his father entering the Ontario Legislature just four years prior. Memories of his father’s political life are vivid, including experiences on the campaign trail during the 1975 elections. Despite initially veering towards journalism—a field he shared with his mother, Michele Landsberg—Avi eventually found his way back into politics, prompting his father’s playful remark when he announced his leadership bid: “What took you so long?”
This blend of personal history and public service underscores the intricate tapestry of Avi’s identity as he forges his path within the NDP. With the weight of his father’s legacy behind him, he is poised to navigate the complexities of modern Canadian politics while honouring the values instilled in him by his parents.
Why it Matters
Avi Lewis’s ascension to the NDP leadership amid the passing of his father underscores the intertwining of personal and political legacies in Canadian politics. The upcoming memorial service not only serves as a tribute to Stephen Lewis’s profound impact on society but also highlights the challenges faced by those who must carry forward such legacies. As Avi steps into his new role, he must balance the expectations of his father’s formidable shadow while carving out his own identity within the party and the broader political landscape. This moment is a poignant reminder of the human side of politics, where personal loss can fuel a renewed commitment to advocacy and public service.