Letters of the Day: The loss of an icon

Posted: 7:27 AM CDT Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2011

The death of NDP Leader Jack Layton has devastated Canadians. People are saddened to hear of the demise of such an honest leader who brought the NDP to the level of official Opposition party in Parliament. He was iconic and full of hope for Canadians, especially for Quebecers and their concerns.

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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 23/08/2011 (5477 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

He was a good, vibrant politician who believed the NDP can provide better governance compared to the Conservatives and Liberals, and achieve the social and political results for Canadians. He persuaded people that positive results and corrective actions would be accomplished if one works with honesty and sincerity.

He brought significant reforms to Parliament. His courage, strength and determination will be a great loss for grieving Canadians. It will be very difficult for the NDP to find a person of his calibre to lead the party.

Nathan Denette / the canadian press archives
NDP Leader Jack Layton waves to his supporters at a campaign stop in 2008. — Nathan Denette / the canadian press archives NDP Leader Jack Layton waves to his supporters at a campaign stop in 2008.

My thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are for Olivia and the family. May God grant them courage to bear this loss.

MOHAMMAD ASHRAF

Winnipeg

I would like to send my sincere condolences to Jack Layton’s family on his untimely death. As a cancer survivor, I admired Layton’s tireless fight against this vicious disease. Cancer is one of the major health issues facing Canadians today. Nearly 50 per cent of all men and women will get cancer.

After surviving cancer twice myself, and then contracting flesh-eating disease that took my legs, Jack Layton sent me a personal letter, which said that he was aware of my “selfless and continuous dedication to carrying on the social democratic tradition of fighting for fairness and social justice for others.

It is because of the dedication of people like you that we continue to fight the good fight.”

These words, more than anything, reflect Jack Layton’s personal dedication to social justice, fighting poverty throughout his public life both as a city councillor and as an MP.

NICK TERNETTE

Winnipeg