Claude R Engle

Ed Broadbent

Mar 20, 1936 - Jan 10, 2024

Ottawa, ON

In Memoriam: The Honourable Ed Broadbent March 21, 1936 - January 11, 2024 The Honourable Ed Broadbent, a towering figure in Canadian politics and a champion of social justice, passed away peacefully in Ottawa, Ontario, on January 11, 2024, at the age of 87. His legacy of compassion, integrity, and dedication to public service will forever resonate in the hearts of Canadians and beyond. Born in Oshawa, Ontario, on March 21, 1936, to Percy Broadbent and Mary Welsh, Ed Broadbent's remarkable journey was marked by a deep commitment to serving others and advancing the cause of equality and human rights. From an early age, Ed demonstrated a passion for politics and academia, embarking on a path that would shape the course of Canadian history. After earning a degree in philosophy from the University of Toronto, Ed pursued postgraduate studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science, where his intellectual curiosity and unwavering determination propelled him to excel in the field of political science. Armed with a profound understanding of social and political dynamics, Ed embarked on a lifelong mission to effect positive change in the world. In 1968, Ed was elected to the House of Commons as a member of the New Democratic Party of Canada (NDP), representing the riding of Oshawa-Whitby. Over the course of seven years, he distinguished himself as a dedicated advocate for his constituents, earning their trust and admiration through his tireless efforts to address pressing social issues and champion progressive policies. In 1975, Ed Broadbent assumed the leadership of the NDP, a role he would fulfill with distinction for fourteen years. As leader, he inspired a generation of Canadians with his vision of a fairer, more inclusive society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. His unwavering commitment to social justice and his ability to bridge divides and build consensus earned him widespread respect and admiration across the political spectrum. Throughout his illustrious career, Ed remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice and equality, never wavering in the face of adversity or opposition. From his tenure as president of the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development to his return to the House of Commons as a Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre, Ed continued to be a tireless advocate for the marginalized and vulnerable, working tirelessly to uphold the principles of democracy and human dignity. In 2011, Ed founded the Broadbent Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing progressive change and fostering a more equitable society. His commitment to empowering future generations of leaders and activists was unwavering, and his legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched and the causes he championed. Beyond his political accomplishments, Ed Broadbent will be remembered for his warmth, compassion, and infectious zest for life. He embodied the spirit of joy and camaraderie, finding solace and inspiration in the simple pleasures of music, movies, and spending time with loved ones. His thoughtful conversations and genuine interest in the world around him endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Canada and the world, a state funeral will be held in memory of the Honourable Ed Broadbent at 4 p.m. on January 28, 2024, at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre in Ottawa. Canadians are invited to join in honoring his life and legacy by watching the ceremony live on CBC/Radio-Canada television and web streaming platforms. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Broadbent Institute, Amnesty International, and Doctors Without Borders, organizations that reflect Ed's lifelong commitment to social justice and humanitarian causes. As we bid farewell to Ed Broadbent, let us celebrate his remarkable legacy and carry forward his vision of a more just and compassionate world. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who continue the fight for equality, dignity, and human rights. Rest in peace, dear Ed. Your legacy will forever inspire us to strive for a better tomorrow.