As Avi Lewis embarks on his new role as the leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), he finds himself navigating not only the political landscape but also the profound loss of his father, Stephen Lewis. The elder Lewis, a towering figure in Canadian politics and advocacy, passed away just two days after his son assumed leadership on March 29. In a recent conversation, Avi opened up about his father’s influence and the emotional weight he carries as he enters this new chapter.
A Father’s Reassurance in Uncertain Times
In the days leading up to his election, Avi Lewis confided in his father during a candid phone call. Expressing his anxiety about the responsibilities that lay ahead, he received the comforting wisdom typical of Stephen Lewis. “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,” recalled Avi. This paternal advice, offered in the face of Stephen’s own struggles with cancer, provided a moment of solace amid the tumult of political life.
The bond between father and son transcended mere familial ties; it was rooted in a shared commitment to public service. At 88, Stephen Lewis remained a guiding presence, even as he faced the final days of his life. His passing marked the end of an era for not just the Lewis family, but for the many who admired his contributions to social justice, healthcare advocacy, and international diplomacy.
Remembering Stephen Lewis: A Public Celebration of a Private Life
Following the intimate family funeral held earlier this month, Avi Lewis and his siblings are set to honour their father in a more public manner during a memorial service at Toronto Metropolitan University. This event will pay tribute to Stephen Lewis’s illustrious career, which includes his tenure as leader of the Ontario NDP, his role as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, and his founding of the Stephen Lewis Foundation focused on combating HIV/AIDS in Africa.
Among the speakers will be prominent figures such as Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella, who will join the Lewis family in celebrating a man whose life was dedicated to advocacy and change. Avi, alongside his sisters Ilana and Jenny, intends to share personal anecdotes that reveal the multi-faceted nature of their father, who was as much a public figure as he was a private individual.
Balancing Personal Grief with Political Duty
For Avi Lewis, the memorial service represents a unique intersection of personal grief and political duty. The new NDP leader acknowledges the public interest surrounding the event but emphasises that it will not be a political platform. “It won’t be a political moment for me,” he stated, reflecting on the emotional challenges of sharing his father’s legacy in front of an audience. The fear of losing composure is natural, he admits, yet he understands that vulnerability is a crucial part of the grieving process.
As he prepares to speak, Avi is acutely aware of the legacy he carries on his shoulders—not only as the son of a distinguished politician but also as a leader within the NDP. His father’s voice echoes in his mind, reminding him of the importance of authenticity during moments of public scrutiny.
The Journey from Childhood to Leadership
Avi Lewis’s path to leadership has been shaped by his upbringing. Born in 1967, he witnessed his father’s political journey from a young age, even joining him on the campaign trail. While his childhood interests initially veered towards journalism, he now finds himself in the political arena, a transition his father had anticipated. “What took you so long?” Stephen reportedly asked when Avi revealed his plans to run for leader.
This generational shift is emblematic of the Lewis family’s commitment to public service. Avi’s experiences growing up amidst political campaigns—whether being stung by a bee while canvassing or learning about the pulp industry on a factory visit—have informed his understanding of the complexities of political life.
Why it Matters
The story of Avi Lewis and his father, Stephen, is not just a personal narrative; it’s reflective of the broader themes of legacy, leadership, and the emotional labour that accompanies public service. As Avi steps into a role fraught with challenges, he carries forth not only his father’s political ideals but also the poignancy of their shared moments. In doing so, he embodies the continuity of a political lineage that prioritises social justice and community engagement, making his journey a compelling one for both the NDP and the Canadian political landscape at large.