Canadian Trailblazer Stephen Lewis Passes at 88
Renowned Canadian diplomat, politician, and human rights advocate Stephen Lewis has died at 88. He was a tireless champion for global HIV/AIDS awareness.
Stephen Lewis, the renowned Canadian diplomat, politician, and social activist, has passed away at the age of 88 after a battle with cancer. Lewis was a trailblazer who spent decades tirelessly working to focus global attention on the HIV/AIDS epidemic and advocate for human rights around the world.
As the Canadian ambassador to the United Nations and the leader of Ontario's New Democratic Party (NDP), Lewis left an indelible mark on his country and the global community. He was the father of Avi Lewis, who was elected leader of the progressive NDP just one day before his father's passing.
Lewis was a passionate and outspoken voice on a wide range of social and political issues. He was particularly known for his unwavering commitment to addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis, using his platform to shine a spotlight on the devastating impact of the disease, especially in developing nations.
Throughout his career, Lewis served in numerous influential roles, including as the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa. In this capacity, he traveled extensively, meeting with heads of state and grassroots organizations to advocate for greater investment and policy changes to combat the pandemic.
Beyond his work on HIV/AIDS, Lewis was a tireless champion for human rights, economic justice, and environmental protection. He was a vocal critic of inequality and injustice, using his platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and hold governments and institutions accountable.
In his home country of Canada, Lewis made a significant impact as the leader of the Ontario NDP. During his tenure, he helped to shape the party's progressive agenda and advocated for policies that prioritized the needs of working families, the elderly, and the most vulnerable.
The legacy of Stephen Lewis will continue to inspire and guide those who share his unwavering commitment to social justice and human rights. His passing is a profound loss for Canada and the global community, but his lifetime of service and advocacy will never be forgotten.
Source: The Guardian
