Stephen Lewis, the Canadian diplomat, politician, and human rights advocate, has passed away at the age of 88 after a battle with cancer. Lewis was known for his extensive work in raising global awareness about the HIV/AIDS epidemic and for his leadership roles in Canadian politics.
Career Highlights
Lewis served as the leader of Ontario’s New Democratic Party (NDP) from 1970 to 1978, during which time he was the official opposition leader from 1975 to 1977. After his political career, he was appointed as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations. He later took on the role of special adviser to the UN Secretary-General on African affairs and became the deputy director of UNICEF. His work as the United Nations special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa was particularly impactful, as he witnessed the devastating effects of the epidemic in the region.
Advocacy and Legacy
Lewis was a passionate advocate for social justice and human rights. He co-founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation with his daughter, Ilana Landsberg-Lewis, focusing on combating disease and poverty in Africa. Throughout his career, he was known for his eloquent speeches and sharp criticism of wealthy nations and global institutions that failed to address humanitarian crises.
In a statement from his family, they noted, “Stephen spent the last eight years of his life battling cancer with the same indomitable energy he brought to his lifelong work: the unending struggle for justice and dignity for every human life.” Prime Minister Mark Carney also paid tribute to Lewis, calling him “a pillar of compassionate leadership in Canadian democracy, and a renowned global champion for human rights and multilateralism.”
Lewis’s son, Avi Lewis, was elected leader of the federal NDP just a day before his father’s passing. In his victory speech, Avi acknowledged his father’s declining health but noted his enduring passion for democratic socialism, stating that his father demanded daily updates about the party’s organizing efforts from his hospital bed.
Throughout his life, Lewis received numerous accolades, including 42 honorary degrees and the Order of Canada, which is the country’s highest honor. His legacy includes two schools in Toronto named in his honor, reflecting his significant impact on Canadian society and global humanitarian efforts.
Source: Original report