Unifor is deeply saddened to learn of Stephen Lewis’ passing today after a tough battle with cancer.

Lewis, 88, a former politician, broadcaster and labour mediator, was a long-time friend to Unifor, Canadian Auto Workers’ (CAW) Union, and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union (CEP). Throughout his life, he made a profound and lasting impact on working people with his fiery speeches and effective activism.

“Stephen Lewis was a principled voice who never stopped fighting for working people and a better world,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.

“Stephen stood with unions and with communities, reminding us that fairness is won through collective action and courage. His legacy will continue to guide us as we carry on the work to keep standing up for workers and building a more compassionate world.”

As leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party in the 1970s, Lewis highlighted issues such as rent control and workplace safety to the public.

At Unifor’s 2019 Constitutional Convention, he presented General Romeo Dallaire the prestigious the Nelson Mandela Award.

Lewis was a tireless and fearless advocate for those affected by the HIV-AIDS crisis in Africa. He appeared numerous times at Unifor, CAW and CEP gatherings and his two flagship organizations, the Stephen Lewis Foundation and AIDS-Free World were proudly supported by the Unifor Social Justice Fund and its predecessor funds.

Lewis also spoke at Unifor’s first Canadian Council in 2014 in Vancouver.

For his humanitarian work in Africa and the U.N., the Governor General of Canada appointed Lewis a Companion of the Order of Canada on Oct. 10, 2002.

Unifor extends our sincere condolences to Lewis’ family on the loss of a great Canadian whose lifelong commitment to social justice and human rights leaves an enduring mark in our country’s history.