In a poignant moment of grief and reflection, Avi Lewis, the newly appointed leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), prepares to honour the memory of his father, Stephen Lewis, who passed away just two days after his son’s election on March 29. As Avi navigates the complexities of his new role, he draws strength from the wisdom imparted by his father, a prominent figure in Canadian politics and global advocacy.
A Lasting Connection
Just prior to assuming leadership, Avi Lewis found solace in conversations with Stephen, who was battling terminal cancer. During one of their weekly discussions, Avi confided his anxieties about the responsibilities that lay ahead. “I’m actually kind of nervous. I’m stressed. It’s a lot that’s coming up,” he admitted. In response, Stephen offered reassurance that only a father could provide: “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.”
The exchange highlighted not only the bond between father and son but also Stephen Lewis’s enduring role as a mentor, even in his final days.
A Tribute to a Remarkable Life
Avi Lewis and his siblings will gather this Sunday at a memorial service to celebrate the life of their father, who led the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978 and served as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations. Stephen was also the founder of the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which has made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS in Africa. This event, held at Toronto Metropolitan University, will feature notable speakers, including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella.
Avi emphasised that his family aims to share a more personal side of Stephen, revealing the dimensions of a man known for his public service but who also had a playful, adventurous spirit. “He had a really silly streak, a truly delightful side of him,” Avi remarked. “We want to fill out the portrait.”
Navigating New Challenges
Avi Lewis’s ascension to leadership comes at a crucial time for the NDP, which faces the unexpected resignation of Alexandre Boulerice, the party’s sole Member of Parliament from Quebec, as he transitions to provincial politics. Addressing these challenges requires not only political acumen but also the ability to connect with the public, an area where the Lewis legacy shines.
Reflecting on his father’s impact, Avi acknowledged the emotional weight of the upcoming memorial. “It won’t be a political moment for me. I’m not naive about the fact that there’s an interest,” he noted. He candidly expressed the apprehension that comes with public mourning, recognising that the vulnerability of grief can be daunting, yet ultimately cathartic.
A Journey from Childhood to Leadership
Born in 1967, Avi Lewis spent his formative years observing his father’s political journey. He recalls fond memories from the 1975 campaign, where he and his sister Ilana accompanied their father on the campaign trail. “We were fascinated by Dad’s job,” he said, recounting moments like being stung by a bee while campaigning and learning about the pulp industry from workers. Despite his early exposure to politics, Avi initially pursued a career in journalism, following in his mother Michele Landsberg’s footsteps.
Looking back, Avi chuckled at his youthful dismissals of political ambitions. When he eventually decided to run for party leader, Stephen’s response was a testament to their bond: “What took you so long?”
Why it Matters
Avi Lewis’s rise to leadership in the NDP during such a poignant time underscores the interplay between personal legacy and public duty. As he navigates the challenges ahead, the values instilled by Stephen Lewis—compassion, resilience, and a commitment to social justice—will undoubtedly shape his approach to leadership. The memorial service will not only honour a revered figure in Canadian history but also serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of familial ties in the realm of politics. As the NDP seeks to reinvigorate its presence on the national stage, the lessons learned from the past will guide its future.
