Alongside friends, colleagues, and communities the world over, the HIV Legal Network mourns the passing of Stephen Lewis. He was a true champion for those living with and affected by HIV, a committed human rights activist, and a mensch beyond measure. Today, the world feels heavier without Stephen in it.
Stephen Lewis shone an incredible spotlight on the HIV and AIDS epidemic, including on the affected people at its centre who had for too long been ignored, stigmatized, criminalized, and pushed to the very edges of society. Of course, we know that this marginalization persists, but Stephen believed that more could — and can — always be done, especially by centering the human rights and the humanity of those most affected, including and importantly women. He believed in the power of community, and in the power that is inherently of the people. Above all, Stephen Lewis believed in hope, and he taught us to believe in it, too.
Finding the words to express what Stephen meant to the Legal Network, and indeed to the HIV community around the world, is difficult. Stephen, of course, always had the perfect words on the tip of his tongue. He was a gifted orator and used his power of persuasion on many occasions in support of our shared issues, which included access to medicines for all, ending HIV criminalization, and advancing progressive drug policy in Canada and beyond. He was a friend and mentor to Legal Network staff and would often send encouraging notes of appreciation that many of us have kept, buoying our spirits in times of particular trial. How precious those words feel now, as we continue the pioneering work Stephen Lewis led for so many years.
Our hearts are with Stephen’s beloved wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family and friends, and for all who are grieving the loss of an extraordinary man.
May his memory be a blessing. Indeed, it already is.