In a poignant reminder of the intertwining of personal and political life, newly elected federal NDP Leader Avi Lewis prepares to honour his father, Stephen Lewis, who passed away just two days after his son assumed leadership. As the family gathers for a memorial at Toronto Metropolitan University, Avi reflects on the profound influence his father had on both his life and career.
A Son’s Journey into Leadership
Just prior to his election as leader of the federal New Democratic Party on March 29, Avi Lewis found himself sharing his anxieties with his father during a weekly phone call. “I told him I was feeling nervous and stressed,” Avi recalled. Stephen, despite battling terminal cancer, provided his son with the comfort and reassurance that only a parent can offer. With a calm voice, he advised, “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.”
Stephen Lewis, who led the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978 and later served as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, was a towering figure in Canadian politics and advocacy. His death marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that will be celebrated by family and friends alike.
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
A family funeral for Stephen was held earlier this month, described by Avi as “an incredibly intense, powerful, deeply sad and beautiful experience.” The forthcoming memorial service at Toronto Metropolitan University will see prominent figures, including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella, gather to pay tribute to Stephen’s extraordinary life.
Avi and his sisters, Ilana and Jenny, plan to share personal anecdotes that reveal the multifaceted nature of their father. While their mother, journalist Michele Landsberg, is unable to speak, Avi emphasised their intention to present a fuller portrait of Stephen, who was not just a political figure but also a man of surprising talents. “He had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him,” Avi noted, recounting a rare moment when his father showcased his athletic prowess by throwing a perfect spiral football.
Balancing Grief and Public Life
As Avi navigates his new responsibilities as NDP leader, he faces the challenge of balancing personal grief with political duty. The recent announcement of Alexandre Boulerice’s departure from the NDP to pursue provincial politics adds another layer of complexity to his role. Despite these pressures, Avi remains focused on the memorial, recognising it as a space for emotional expression, albeit with a tinge of apprehension. “We’re all just embarrassed about losing it emotionally in front of a group of people. But if you’re lucky, you just get swept up in it,” he said.
Reflecting on his childhood, Avi shared memories of accompanying his father on the campaign trail during the 1975 election. While he initially pursued a career in journalism, he ultimately found himself drawn back into the realm of politics, much to his father’s amusement. “What took you so long?” Stephen’s reaction to his announcement of running for NDP leader serves as a testament to the familial bond that has both shaped and inspired Avi’s journey.
Why it Matters
The memorial service for Stephen Lewis is more than just a farewell; it represents a moment for reflection on the enduring impact of his life’s work. As Avi Lewis steps into the leadership role, he carries with him not only his father’s legacy but also the weight of expectations as he navigates the complexities of modern Canadian politics. This moment underscores the significance of family, resilience, and the ongoing influence of those who have come before us, reminding all of us of the powerful connections that shape our identities and our paths.