Avi Lewis delivers a heartfelt eulogy for his father

In the life of a public figure, few moments are as poignant as delivering a eulogy for a loved one. For Avi Lewis, the new leader of the federal NDP, this moment is both a personal and political milestone. The upcoming memorial service for his father, Stephen Lewis, serves as a profound intersection of family, legacy, and the weight of expectations. It is an opportunity for Avi to reflect on his father's significant contributions while sharing intimate memories that shaped his own identity.

A bond that transcends politics

Avi Lewis's journey into the political arena was deeply influenced by his father. Just weeks before taking on the role of federal NDP Leader, Avi shared a candid conversation with Stephen, who was battling terminal cancer. During a particularly stressful campaign period, Avi expressed his anxiety to his father. Stephen's response was a blend of paternal reassurance and political wisdom: “You don’t have to do anything that you haven’t been doing for months. Just keep it up. You’re doing great.”

This exchange highlights not only their close relationship but also Stephen’s unwavering support, even in his final days. Although he was facing his own challenges, Stephen took the time to bolster his son’s confidence, showcasing the enduring nature of their bond.

Remembering Stephen Lewis: a life of service

Stephen Lewis was a prominent figure in Canadian politics and advocacy, serving as the leader of the Ontario NDP from 1970 to 1978 before becoming Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations. His commitment to humanitarian causes was exemplified through the founding of the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which focused on combatting HIV/AIDS in Africa. His life's work reflects a legacy of compassion and activism, shaping Canada’s political landscape.

The memorial service planned at Toronto Metropolitan University will pay tribute to this remarkable career. It will gather friends, colleagues, and family members who will share stories of his influence and character. Among those expected to speak are notable figures such as Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella, emphasizing the high regard in which Stephen was held.

A private farewell

Prior to the public memorial, the family held a private funeral that Avi described as “incredibly intense, powerful, deeply sad and beautiful.” He and his sisters, Ilana Landsberg-Lewis and Jenny Lewis, will collectively share their memories during the public service, providing a unique perspective on their father as a man beyond his public persona.

Avi noted that his mother, journalist Michele Landsberg, would not be speaking at the ceremony due to her health, but he emphasized the importance of showcasing a more rounded view of Stephen. “We want to share the playful and adventurous sides of him,” he remarked. This desire to depict a fuller picture of their father's life speaks volumes about the complexity of his character.

Revealing a different side of a public figure

While Stephen Lewis was known for his political acumen, he also possessed a range of hidden talents and personal quirks that his children wish to highlight. For instance, Avi recalls a surprising moment from his childhood when his father demonstrated unexpected athleticism during a casual game of football. “He fired a perfect spiral like a laser,” Avi reminisced, recalling how this rare display of skill left him both shocked and delighted.

This anecdote is just one of many that illustrate Stephen’s multifaceted personality. Avi described him as a private person who may have "exhausted his lifetime supply of socializing" through his extensive public engagements. Yet, he also acknowledged the playful and silly aspects of his father, emphasizing that those moments are part of what made Stephen truly unique.

The challenges of public speaking in personal grief

As the memorial approaches, Avi and his sisters are grappling with the emotional weight of speaking publicly about their loss. “Quite the opposite,” he expressed regarding his initial reluctance to take the microphone alone. However, as the service draws near, they have come to realize the importance of standing together to honor their father’s memory.

Avi recognizes the blend of personal grief and public expectation that accompanies such gatherings. “There’s sometimes a dread around these moments,” he noted, acknowledging the shared vulnerability that comes with mourning in front of an audience. The emotional release that can occur during these ceremonies is an essential part of the grieving process, despite the nervousness it may induce.

A political legacy intertwined with a personal journey

Avi Lewis's foray into politics was not a direct path; he initially pursued a career in journalism, inspired by his mother. However, his father's legacy loomed large, and as he prepares to embrace his leadership role in the NDP, he reflects on the influence of his upbringing. Born in 1967, just four years after Stephen was elected to the Ontario Legislature, Avi's early exposure to political life shaped his understanding of public service.

During the 1975 campaign, young Avi and his sister traveled with their father, witnessing the intricacies of political life firsthand. These experiences, woven into the fabric of their family narrative, ultimately paved the way for Avi's own political aspirations. “What took you so long?” was Stephen’s quip when Avi finally decided to run for leader, a testament to the father-son dynamic that underscored their relationship.

The road ahead for Avi Lewis

Stepping into the role of federal NDP Leader comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in light of recent developments, such as the unexpected departure of the NDP’s only Quebec MP. As Avi navigates this new terrain, he must balance the legacies of both his father and grandfather, who also played significant roles in the NDP's history.

Despite the pressures of leadership, Avi's commitment to honoring his father's legacy remains paramount. The upcoming memorial service is not just a tribute to Stephen Lewis's life but also an opportunity for Avi to connect with his own values and mission within the political landscape.

A moment of reflection amid a public life

As Avi prepares for the memorial, he is acutely aware of the blend of personal and public that characterizes this moment. He acknowledges the complexity of grief and the expectations that come with being a public figure. “If you’re lucky, you just get swept up in it,” he mused, reflecting on the cathartic experiences that can arise during such gatherings.

The service will undoubtedly serve as a powerful reminder of the Lewis family's enduring commitment to social justice and public service, a legacy that Avi is poised to continue amidst the challenges of modern politics.