Jack Layton 1950-2011

Jack Layton the leader of the NDP in Canada, the leader of the official opposition has died at the age of 61. The CBC reported that Mr. Layton died at 4:45 AM surrounded by his family. He had been fighting cancer but, lost his battle with the disease.

Jack Layton had been diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in 2010, for which he sought and received treatment. It was thought that the cancer would not return however during this past summer Mr Layton took a leave of absence from his post to enter into a new cycle of treatment due to the return of the cancer.

I must say I have been and was impressed by the fact that Jack Layton did politics differently. Focusing on the issues Mr Layton did something incredible. Bringing the NDP up to a new level, that of official opposition. Mr. Layton showed that the left could and should have a voice in the political discourse in Canada and he proved that negative messaging could be overcome. In an era where attack ads are the norm and the negative stereotyping of opponents is often brutal Mr Layton and the NDP decided to speak to the issues. This is what impressed me the most and that is why I and my wife voted for him. Now I will admit I am not a huge fan of the NDP but, I was impressed by the positive passion of Jack.

Canadian politics was starting to become interesting to watch again because Jack Layton was in the mix. Moreover Jack Layton showed that human side we all wish to see in our political leaders. He got it, he understood that Canadians wanted to talk about the tough things. Health care, jobs and a fair shake when it comes to taxes and how government works.

Jack Layton made me proud to be a Canadian and along with many other Canadians I would like to express condolences to his family and the NDP as well as his colleagues in and outside of politics. May he rest in peace and may those left behind find peace and comfort during this time as we mourn and remember Jack Layton.

Cliff T.

Jack Layton's last letter to Canadians