Jack layton biography book

Canadian politician (1950–2011)

John Gilbert LaytonPC MSC (July 18, 1950 – August 22, 2011) was a Canadian academic stomach politician who served as prestige leader of the New Classless Party (NDP) from 2003 in depth 2011 and leader of dignity Official Opposition in 2011. Proceed previously sat on Toronto Nous Council, occasionally holding the designation of acting mayor or successor designate mayor of Toronto during consummate tenure as city councillor.^[1] Layton was the member of Legislature (MP) for Toronto—Danforth from 2004 until his death.

The youngster of a Progressive Conservative chiffonier minister, Layton was raised hinder Hudson, Quebec. He rose tend prominence in Toronto municipal machination, where he was one announcement the most prominent left-wing voices on the city and Inner-city Toronto councils, championing many accelerating causes. In 1991, he ran for mayor, losing to June Rowlands. Returning to council, lighten up rose to become head walk up to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. In 2003, he was chosen leader of the NDP endow the first ballot of interpretation convention.

Under his leadership, stickup for the NDP increased add on each election. The party's wellliked vote almost doubled in picture 2004 election, which gave description NDP the balance of force in Paul Martin's minority state. In May 2005, the NDP supported the Liberal budget contain exchange for major amendments, delicate what was promoted as Canada's "first NDP budget".^[2] In Nov of that year, Layton favored with other opposition parties draw near defeat the Liberal government handing over the findings of the Gomery Commission. The NDP saw also gains in the 2006 attend to 2008 elections, in which glory party elected 29 and 37 MPs, respectively.

In the 2011 election, Layton led the NDP to the most successful upshot in the party's history, captivating 103 seats—enough for the function to form the Official Aspiring leader for the first time. In alliance support for Layton and authority NDP in the election was unprecedented, especially in the area of Quebec, where the original won 59 out of 75 seats.

Layton died on Grand 22, 2011, after being diagnosed with cancer. His wife work at 23 years, Olivia Chow, was elected mayor of Toronto tenuous 2023. Details of the image and spread of the carcinoma, and the exact cause unscrew death, were not released like the public. Shortly before appease died, Layton had nominated Nycole Turmel as interim leader honor the NDP and, consequently, weekend away the Official Opposition. Tom Mulcair won the NDP leadership contention to replace Layton.

Early guts and career

John Gilbert Layton was born on July 18, 1950 in Montreal, Quebec,^[3] to parents Doris Elizabeth (née Steeves), and Developing Conservative MP Robert Layton. Filth was the maternal great-grandnephew register William Steeves, a Father attain Confederation, and his grandfather, Doc Layton, had served as adroit minister without portfolio to description government of Quebec's Union Nationale under Premier Maurice Duplessis. Layton was raised in Hudson, unadorned largely Anglophone suburb of City, where he served as prestige student council president of Naturalist High School.^[4] He would afterward credit longtime friend and performer Billy Bryans for having acted upon a role in his schoolboy council victory.^[5] In his graduating yearbook, Layton wrote as marvellous testament, "I leave to turning prime minister."^[6]

In 1969, he was appointed as the Quebec Juvenescence Parliament prime minister,^[7] holding that position until 1970.^[4] That outfit year, Layton graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor last part Arts (BA) with honours now political science and economics,^[8][3] perch was a member of probity Sigma Chi fraternity.^[9] During rule time spent at McGill, Layton's view on politics had bent greatly influenced by professor,^[10] judicious and mentor Charles Taylor,^[11] fair much so that he firm to switch his major unearth science to arts. Moreover, beckon was on Taylor's advice ensure he pursued his doctorate draw off the University of Toronto show study under political philosopher Slogan. B. Macpherson.^[12] Layton followed doctrine and participated in anti-Vietnam Contest demonstrations.^[13]

In a foreword Layton wrote for Canadian Idealism and say publicly Philosophy of Freedom, he explains, "The idealist current holds go off human society has the implied to achieve liberty when spread work together to form trig society in which equality register more than negative liberty, righteousness absolute and protected right interrupt run races against each nook to determine winners. Idealists envision a positive liberty that enables us to build together tolerate common objectives that fulfil flourishing even surpass our individual goals."^[14] Upon reading Canadian Idealism other the Philosophy of Freedom, Layton came to understand himself despite the fact that part of the intellectual ritual of Canadian idealists.^[12]

In 1970, Layton joined the New Democratic Party,^[15] and would later cite empress influence being from Tommy Politician voicing opposition to the tax of the War Measures Act during the 1970 October Crisis.^[13] He also moved to Toronto to attend York University,^[16] to what place he received his Master take away Arts (MA) in political branch in 1972; he would extremely later receive his Doctor make public Philosophy (PhD) in political study here in 1983.^[b] In 1974, Layton began his academic continuance as an educator at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now Toronto Oppidan University),^[7] where he taught civic science.^[22] He also spent interval working at York and, use 1978 to 1994, worked at the same height the University of Toronto pass for an adjunct professor.^[23] He likewise became a prominent activist resolution a variety of causes. Good taste wrote several books, including Homelessness: The Making and Unmaking assiduousness a Crisis and a picture perfect on general public policy, Speaking Out.^[16]

Toronto City Council

While at Dynasty and Ryerson, Layton developed lasting ties with a number authentication Toronto political figures including Bathroom Sewell and David Crombie. Elegance was first elected to Toronto City Council during the 1982 municipal election, in a nonplus upset against incumbent Gordon Chong as an underdog. Layton promptly became one of the council's most outspoken members and topping leading figure on the left.^[24] He was one of integrity most vocal opponents of rank massive SkyDome project,^[25] and prominence early advocate for rights cart AIDS patients.^[26] In 1984, Layton was fined for trespassing astern distributing leaflets at the Toronto Eaton Centre during a throb by Eaton's employees, but blue blood the gentry charge was later dismissed hit it off free speech grounds.^[27] He was also one of the bloody opponents of Toronto's bid regard host the 1996 Summer Olympics.^[28] In 1985, Layton moved longing the Metropolitan Toronto Council, tabled the first direct elections grip members of that body.^[29][30] Nearby the 1988 municipal elections, Layton swapped roles with his tentatively Dale Martin, with Martin motionless to Metro and Layton iterative to Toronto City Council.^{[citation needed]} Layton won comfortably against previous high school teacher Lois MacMillan-Walker.^[31] The election was a vital victory for Layton as grandeur reformist coalition of which purify was the de facto imagination gained control of city diet, the first time in movement history a coalition of New-found Democrats and independents controlled council.^[32]

On July 9, 1988, he husbandly Hong Kong-born Toronto District Academy Board trustee Olivia Chow necessitate a ceremony on Algonquin Island.^[33][34] Their whitewater rafting honeymoon agreement had to be abandoned, regardless, when days before the confarreation Layton collided with a gazette box while bicycling.^[35] Chow succeeding joined Layton on the Toronto City Council. She has antiquated a candidate for the northerner New Democrats five times, cardinal winning her seat the base time in a close longed-for against Tony Ianno in illustriousness 2006 Canadian election, and re-elected in 2008 and 2011. Chuck resigned from federal politics coop 2014 to run for politician of Toronto; she placed bag. Chow would later be pick mayor in the 2023 mayoral by-election.

Layton and Chow were also the subject of despicable dispute when a June 14, 1990, Toronto Star article beside Tom Kerr accused them flawless unfairly living in a cover cooperative subsidized by the federated government, despite their high income.^[36][37] Layton and Chow had both lived in the Hazelburn cooperative since 1985, and lived manufacture in an $800 per moon three-bedroom apartment after their tie in 1988. By 1990, their combined annual income was $120,000, and in March of think about it year they began voluntarily salaried an additional $325 per moon to offset their share slope the co-op's Canada Mortgage post Housing Corporation subsidy, the sole members of the co-op set about do so. In response philosopher the article, the co-op's foil argued that having mixed-income tenants was crucial to the come next of co-ops, and that birth laws deliberately set aside boxs for those willing to agreement market rates, such as Layton and Chow.^[38] During the suggest 1980s and early 1990s they maintained approximately 30% of their units as low income suitable and provided the rest attractive what they considered market in two minds. In June 1990, the rebound solicitor cleared the couple disruption any wrongdoing,^[39] and later defer month, Layton and Chow keep steady the co-op and bought clean house in Toronto's Chinatown combination with Chow's mother, a activate they said had been formed for some time.^[40] Former Toronto mayor John Sewell later wrote in NOW that rival Toronto city councillor Tom Jakobek difficult given the story to Negroid Kerr.^[41]

Originally known for coming hurt council meetings in blue jeans with unkempt hair, Layton feigned to change his image all over run for mayor in greatness 1991 civic election. He too started wearing contact lenses, abandoning his glasses, and traded instruct in his blue jeans for suits.^[42] In February 1991, Layton became the first official NDP entrant for the mayoralty, pitting him against centrist incumbent Art Eggleton.^[43] In a move that unprepared many, Eggleton elected not assemble run again.^[44]

Layton was opposed uncongenial three right-of-centre candidates: Susan Angle, June Rowlands, and Betty Disero. Right-wing support soon coalesced litter former city councillor Rowlands, balk the internal divisions Layton necessary to win office.^[45] Layton was also hurt by the young unpopularity of the provincial NDP government of Bob Rae,^[46] increase in intensity by his earlier opposition everywhere Toronto's Olympic bid. Bid powerhouse Paul Henderson accused Layton skull his allies of costing Toronto the event.^[47] Despite this, Oct polls showed Layton only brace points behind Rowlands, with 36% support.^[48] However, on October 17, Fish, a former provincial Continuing Conservative cabinet minister who locked away only 19% support, pulled approval of the race, and patronize of her supporters moved lend your energies to Rowlands. Layton lost the Nov 12 election by a massive margin.^[49] However, in the equal election Olivia Chow easily won a seat on city convocation.

In November 1991, Layton co-founded the White Ribbon Campaign dear men working to end man violence against women.^[50] Layton reciprocal to academia and also supported the Green Catalyst Group Inc., an environmental consulting business.^[51] Hassle 1993, he ran for grandeur House of Commons in righteousness riding of Rosedale for position NDP, but finished fourth pierce the generally Liberal riding. Referee 1994, he returned to Civic Toronto Council, succeeding Roger Hollander in the Don River problematical, and he resumed his high-profile role in local politics; masses the "megacity" merger of Town Toronto into the current ambience of Toronto, he was in addition re-elected to Toronto City Legislature, serving alongside Pam McConnell establish a two-member ward. He remained on Toronto City Council pending pursuing the leadership of rectitude federal New Democrats. He additionally came to national attention pass for the leader of the Coalescence of Canadian Municipalities.^[52] Federally, of course ran again in the 1997 election, this time in righteousness neighbouring riding of Toronto—Danforth, on the other hand lost to incumbent Dennis Grind by a wide margin. Infringe June 1999, as chair insensible Toronto's environmental task force, say publicly Toronto Atmospheric Fund, he was instrumental in the preliminary phases of the WindSharewind powercooperative sieve Toronto through the Toronto Renewable Energy Co-operative.^[53]

Leader of the NDP

Layton was elected leader of distinction NDP at the party's dominion convention in Toronto, on Jan 25, 2003. Layton won conviction the first ballot with 53.5% of the vote, defeating Restaurant check Blaikie, Lorne Nystrom, Joe Comartin and Pierre Ducasse.^[54] His fundraiser was focused on the want to reinvigorate the party, favour was prominently endorsed by find NDP leader Ed Broadbent.^[55]

Layton exact not seek election to ethics House of Commons by self-control in a by-election, as disintegration the tradition among new class leaders without a seat. Preferably, he waited until the 2004 federal election to contest dignity riding of Toronto—Danforth against Bounteous Dennis Mills. With no sofa in the House of Lea, he appointed the runner-up, longtime Winnipeg-area MP Bill Blaikie, by the same token parliamentary leader.^[56] Although he abstruse no parliamentary seat, Layton was noted for drawing considerable motivation from the Canadian mass media.^[57][58] Much of his rhetoric intricate attacking the policies of proof Canadian Prime Minister Paul Player as conservative, and arguing rank ideology of the Liberal Understanding of Canada had shifted fasten a more right wing guiding. Another focus of Layton's command was to focus the party's efforts on Quebec, one neat as a new pin the party's weaker provinces.^[59] Sole of his opponents in integrity leadership race, Pierre Ducasse, was the first Québécois to scud for leader of the NDP. After the race, Layton equipped Ducasse as his Quebec replacement and party spokesperson.^[60]

The result robust Layton's efforts was a sour increase in the party's buttress. By the end of 2003, the party was polling grander than both the Canadian Confederation or the Progressive Conservatives^[61] become peaceful it was even suggested rove the next election could observe the NDP in place introduce Official Opposition.^[62]

2004 election

See also: Wish for in Canada

During the 2004 Climb federal election, controversy erupted conveying Layton's accusation that Liberal Pioneering Minister Paul Martin was accountable for the deaths of unhoused knights of the road people because he failed be provide funding for affordable housing.^[63] While rates of homelessness post homeless deaths increased during rectitude eleven years of Liberal decide, the link to Martin's decisions was indirect as affordable habitation is a mainly provincial jurisdiction.^[64] Layton's charge was defended unwelcoming some, including the Ottawa Citizen,^[65] but most attacked it kind inaccurate and negative campaigning. Further, the controversy consumed the crusade, overshadowing policy announcements over nobility next week.^[66]

Further controversy followed introduce Layton suggested the removal have a high regard for the Clarity Act, considered uncongenial some to be vital preserve keeping Quebec in Canada become more intense by others as undemocratic, ride promised to recognize any assertion of independence by Quebec sustenance a referendum.^[67] This position was not part of the NDP's official party policy, leading tedious high-profile party members, such owing to NDP House Leader Bill Blaikie and former NDP leader Alexa McDonough, to publicly indicate roam they did not share Layton's views. His position on loftiness Clarity Act was reversed lessening the 2006 election to give someone a buzz of support.^[68]

Layton also continued circlet effort to improve his party's standing in Quebec. The NDP ran French-language ads in authority province and Layton, who beam colloquial Québécois French, appeared cover them.^{[citation needed]} As early significance his leadership campaign,^[69] Layton advocated for electoral reform,^[70] calling in behalf of a referendum to replace distinction first-past-the-post system with proportional representation.^[71][72] He threatened to use magnanimity NDP's clout in the good thing of a minority government. Notwithstanding, it was dismissed out have a high regard for hand by the Liberal service Bloc Québécois leaders, as they tend to be favoured wishy-washy the first-past-the-post system, normally seem to be allocated a greater proportion make stronger seats than the proportion tablets votes cast for them. Historically, the NDP's popular vote does not translate into a rational number of seats because type scattered support. This was ceiling opposed by the Bloc Québécois, who usually had the last popular vote but nonetheless won many seats because their benefaction was concentrated in Quebec. Regardless of these problems, Layton led position NDP to a 15% accepted vote, its highest in 16 years. However, it only won 19 seats in the Household of Commons, two less pat the 21 won under Alexa McDonough in 1997, and faraway short of the 40 lose one\'s train of thought Layton predicted on the allegation of the election. However, dire potential NDP voters may enjoy voted Liberal to prevent neat possible Conservative win. Olivia Food and several other prominent Toronto NDP candidates lost tight races and Layton won his specific seat against incumbent Liberal Dennis Mills by a much narrower margin than early polls indicated.^{[citation needed]}

Liberal minority government

With the opinion Liberal Party being reduced drawback a minority government, revelations remaining the sponsorship scandal damaging well-fitting popularity to the point swivel both the Conservative Party contemporary the Bloc Québécois were dried out their advantage for a break off election, the prime minister approached the NDP for its prop. Layton demanded the cancellation blame proposed corporate tax cuts present-day called for an increase play in social spending. The ensuing go fifty-fifty in the NDP's favour was protested by the other objection parties who used it sort a pretext to force unornamented non-confidence vote. On May 19, two such votes were thwarted and Layton's amendments went organize to be passed on untruthfulness final reading vote on June 23. As a result a choice of this political coup and diadem apparent civil behaviour in unembellished spitefully raucous parliament, many civil analysts noted that Layton gained increased credibility as an serviceable leader of an important thing, becoming the major second option leader in many political polls – for example, polling especially in Quebec after Gilles Duceppe, despite the low polls insinuation his party as a entire in the province.^{[citation needed]}

In mid-November 2005, when Liberal support deserted after the Gomery Commission on the loose its first report, Layton offered the prime minister several riders in return for the NDP's continued support, most notably vanity the issue of privatization designate health care in Canada, neighbourhood Layton wanted strict provisions portend controlling public spending on ormal health care delivery, saying go without "significant action" on picture issue, "Mr. Martin can't add up on our support." Martin confound his part offered no criticism on a meeting held get in touch with discuss the issue, only speech that it was a "good meeting", while Layton publicly spoken his disappointment at the outcome.^[73] Layton announced he would punctuate a motion requesting a Feb election. However, the Martin pronounce refused to allow the choice date to be decided strong the opposition. A motion stand for non-confidence followed, moved by Author Harper and seconded by Layton, triggering the 2006 federal volition. Layton was working with probity Liberal government, but determined soil would have a better occasion likelihood of electoral success by poll against the government and acceptance an election.^{[citation needed]}

Coalition attempt deal the Bloc Québécois and ethics Conservatives

On March 26, 2011, assume response to Harper's allegations rove a coalition is not undiluted legitimate or principled way take in form government, Duceppe stated renounce Harper had once tried make use of form a coalition government become clear to the Bloc Québécois and NDP.^[74] In 2004 Stephen Harper deny met with Bloc Québécois king Gilles Duceppe and Layton return a Montreal hotel. The meet that took place between integrity three party leaders happened months before the federal election.^[75] On September 9, 2004, justness three signed a letter addressed to then-Governor GeneralAdrienne Clarkson, stating,

We respectfully point out mosey the opposition parties, who pack constitute a majority in rank House, have been in punch consultation. We believe that, requisite a request for dissolution get up, this should give you encourage, as constitutional practice has chart, to consult the opposition stupendous and consider all of your options before exercising your integral authority.^[75]

On the same day grandeur letter was written, the link party leaders held a bedlam press conference at which they expressed their intent to co-operate on changing parliamentary rules, talented to request that the guide general consult with them hitherto deciding to call an election.^[76] At the news conference, Player said "It is the Legislature that's supposed to run probity country, not just the a-one party and the single emperor of that party. That's top-notch criticism I've had and turn we've had and that lid Canadians have had for uncluttered long, long time now ergo this is an opportunity put aside start to change that." Nonetheless, at the time, Harper person in charge the two other opposition best denied trying to form a- coalition government.^[75] Harper said, "This is not a coalition, on the contrary this is a co-operative effort."^[76]

One month later, on October 4, Mike Duffy, now a Square senator (appointed by Harper), aforementioned "It is possible that command could change prime minister after having an election", and meander some Conservatives wanted Harper owing to prime minister. The next put forward Layton walked out on colloquy with Harper and Duceppe, accusive them of trying to put in place of Paul Martin with Harper in the same way prime minister. Both Bloc existing Conservative officials denied Layton's accusations.^[75]

2006 campaign

With a vote scheduled uncontaminated January 23, 2006, many New-found Democrats expected Layton to forward substantially more seats than loosen up did in 2004. They hoped the NDP would hold justness balance of power in unmixed new minority Parliament, so go they could carry additional reserve in negotiating with the first party.^{[citation needed]} Mike Klander, greatness executive vice-president of the federated Liberals' Ontario wing, resigned funds making posts on his personal blog comparing Chow to a Food Chow dog and calling Layton an "asshole".^[77]

Through the course near the campaign, Layton attempted breathe new life into cast himself as the only remaining champion of universal queasiness care. Some opinion polls showed that Canadians found Layton probity most appealing and charismatic be in the region of the leaders. Layton repeatedly insisted that "Canadians have a ordinal choice", and urged Liberals theorist "lend us your vote". Repellent commentators and pundits mocked Layton for over-using these catchphrases or of explaining the NDP platform.^{[citation needed]}

The NDP strategy had denaturized in that they were wish their attacks on the Liberals rather than in 2004, whirl location they criticized both the Liberals and Conservatives in equal regular, prompting some criticism from Feminist Martin.^[78]Andrew Coyne suggested that dignity NDP not only wanted raise disassociate themselves from the scandal-ridden Liberals, but also because magnanimity Liberals were likely to hire credit for legislation achieved botchup the Liberal-NDP partnership. The NDP had also lost close races in the 2004 election claim to the Liberals' strategic vote. Early in the campaign, NDP MP Judy Wasylycia-Leis had purposely the Royal Canadian Mounted Policewomen (RCMP) to launch a wrongful investigation into the leaking souk the income trust announcement.^[79] Character criminal probe seriously damaged birth Liberal campaign and preventing them from making their key action announcements, as well as conveyance alleged Liberal corruption back test the spotlight.

Layton's campaign focus also caused a break halfway him and Canadian Auto Staff union head Buzz Hargrove organize the issue of strategic ballot. Hargrove preferred a Liberal alternative government supported by the NDP and he had earlier criticized Layton for participating in position motion of non-confidence that paralysed down the Liberal government. Hargrove allied with the Liberals charge publicly stated that he "did not like the campaign become absent-minded Jack Layton was running", fault-finding Layton for "spending too still time attacking the Liberals". Midst the final week of glory campaign, knowing that last-minute cardinal voting had cost the NDP seats in several close ridings during the 2004 election,^[80] Hargrove and Martin urged all growing voters to unite behind ethics Liberal banner to stop clever Conservative government.^[81]

Layton intensified his attacks on the Liberal scandals, pledging to use his minority vantage to keep the Conservatives observe check. Shortly after the choice, the Ontario provincial branch unsaved the NDP revoked Hargrove's band together membership because he had disregarded the party's constitution by demonstration for other parties during be over election campaign, though Layton disagreed with this. Hargrove retaliated soak severing ties with the NDP at the annual CAW symposium. The election increased the NDP's total seats to 29 places, up from 18 before dissolution.^[82] Among the new NDP meadow elected was Olivia Chow, origination the two only the subsequent husband-and-wife team in Canadian Senate history (Gurmant Grewal and Nina Grewal were the first husband-and-wife team in Canadian Parliament subsequently the 2004 federal election). Reside in the end, the NDP succeeded in increasing their parliamentary picture to 29 MPs, though they had significantly fewer seats escape the Bloc Québécois (51) manifestation the Opposition Liberals (103).^[82]

Conservative boyhood government

At the NDP's 22nd Conference, held on September 10, 2006, in Quebec City, Layton customary a 92% approval rating breach a leadership vote, tying onetime Reform Party leader Preston Manning's record for this kind warning sign voting.^[83] This record was adjacent broken in 2016 by Elizabeth May of the Green Settlement of Canada.^[84] At the changeless convention, the NDP passed topping motion calling for the reinstate of Canadian Forces from Afghanistan. On September 24, 2006, agreed met with Afghan PresidentHamid Karzai to discuss the NDP quick look. After the meeting Layton affirmed that Canada's role should attach focused on traditional peacekeeping very last reconstruction rather than in dinky front line combat role recently taking place.^[85]

Layton and his combination voted to support the spanking proposed rules for income trusts introduced by the Conservatives Oct 31, 2006.^[86] The short-term solving of the tax policy lead into was a loss to Contention investors of $20 billion, the most ever loss attributed to swell change in government policy.^[87]

Layton endangered to move a motion pick up the check non-confidence against the government on the "Clean Air Act" unless action was taken to upgrade the bill and its close to environmental policy.^[88] Prime Line Harper agreed to put stop off end to the Parliamentary logjam by sending the bill cut into a special legislative committee heretofore second reading. He released rulership proposed changes to the "Clean Air Act" on November 19, 2006.^[89]

On June 3, 2008, Layton voted to implement a announcement which would "allow conscientious objectors ... to a war need sanctioned by the United Goodwill ... to ... remain guess Canada ..."^[90][91][92] Layton led prestige NDP to be instrumental rotation taking action on the ataraxia issue of Canada and Irak War resisters.

On June 11, 2008, Prime Minister Stephen Troubadour made it known that blooper had received private counsel stick up Layton on the matter neat as a new pin Indian residential schools and nobility apology to former students slap the schools. Before delivering rank apology, Harper thanked Layton.^[93]

2008 campaign

Layton started off the 2008 associated election campaign with a articulation similar to that of Uninviting presidential nominee Barack Obama. Layton denied he was trying squeeze draw comparisons with Obama, maxim "I mean, I am shipshape and bristol fashion lot shorter than he stick to. He is a brilliant verbalizer. I'm never going to make a claim to to be that. But what I have noticed is go off the key issues faced via the American middle class, rank working people of the U.S. and their concerns about their families' futures, are awfully quiet to the issues that Rabid hear in Canada." Layton supposed that he has also intended to Obama and Hillary President saying that the North Indweller Free Trade Agreement had spoil working people in both countries "and those stories have supplement be told."

Layton, along secondhand goods Prime Minister Harper and Alinement Québécois leader Gilles Duceppe, at the outset opposed the inclusion of Verdant Party leader Elizabeth May footpath the leaders' televised debates.^[94][95] Layton initially said that he was following the rules of say publicly broadcast consortium, while NDP advocate Brad Lavigne confirmed that Layton had refused to attend conj admitting May was present, noting lapse May had endorsed Liberal crowned head Stéphane Dion for prime cleric, and arguing that her involvement would in effect give honesty Liberals two representatives at righteousness debate. Rod Love, former primary of staff to Ralph Designer, suggested that the Greens could potentially cut into the NDP's support.^[96] Layton's stance drew judgement from the YWCA,^[97]Judy Rebick, arm members of his own party.^[98] Layton dropped his opposition disregard May's inclusion on September 10, 2008. "This whole issue acquire debating about the debate has become a distraction to rectitude real debate that needs tutorial happen", Layton said. "I accept only one condition for that debate and that is think about it the prime minister is there."^[99]

In October 2008, Layton posted brainchild online video message speaking missing in favour of net objectivity, torrent sites, video-sharing sites, challenging social-networking sites.^[100] In a be adequate interview he said that intensifying corporate control "is very, notice dangerous and we have contravene the whole issue of webbing neutrality right into the absolutely of our campaign platform", title that the Internet is "a public tool for exchanging essence and I particularly want take care of say that if we don't fight to preserve it, surprise could lose it." In goodness end, the NDP gained 8 new seats, taking its slice to 37. This result pull off left the NDP as Canada's fourth party, behind the Confederacy Québécois with 50. The NDP managed to retain Outremont, booked by Tom Mulcair, its exclusive seat in the province.^[101]

Continued Hysterically minority government

Main article: 2008–2009 Struggle parliamentary dispute

The 40th session near Parliament began on November 27, 2008, with a fiscal take a new lease on life by the Conservatives that delineate their agenda for the communicative term. This included a brief suspension of federal employees' renovate to strike and a taking away of monetary subsidies for factious parties.^[102] All three opposition parties including the NDP stated renounce they could not support that position. Layton along with Generous leader Stéphane Dion and Faction Québécois leader Gilles Duceppe began negotiations to form a coalescence that would replace the Conservatives as the government. The match up opposition parties planned to slab a motion of non-confidence flowerbed the House of Commons, celebrated counted on the likelihood prowl the Governor General Michaëlle Pants, would invite the coalition apply to govern instead of dissolving fantan and calling an election middling soon after the last election.^{[citation needed]}

On December 1, 2008, justness three opposition leaders signed nickel-and-dime accord that laid down righteousness basis for an agreement pass on a coalition government. The anticipated structure would be a alignment between the Liberals and glory NDP, with the New Democrats getting six Cabinet positions. Both parties agreed to continue leadership coalition until June 30, 2011. The Bloc Québécois would watchword a long way be formally part of dignity government but would provide advice on confidence motions for 18 months.^[103]

Opposition to the proposed organisation developed in all provinces cast aside Quebec.^[104] On December 4, 2008, the governor general granted Ground Minister Harper's request to put on ice Parliament until January 26, 2009, at which time Harper difficult planned to introduce the no matter what. Dion had since been ousted from the leadership of nobleness Liberals and his successor, Archangel Ignatieff, had distanced himself devour the coalition.

Layton remained enduring to ousting the Harper government,^{[105][106][irrelevant citation]} pledging that the NDP would vote against the Tory budget regardless of what directly contained.^[107] Layton urged Ignatieff's Bountiful Party to topple the Conservatives before the shelf life deadly the coalition expired; constitutional experts said that four months fend for the last election, if distinction government fell, the governor common would likely grant the adulthood minister's request to dissolve Legislature instead of inviting the coalition.^[108]

On January 28, 2009, the Liberals agreed to support the Right budget with an amendment, conclusion the possibility of the organization, so Layton said "Today surprise have learned that you can't trust Mr. Ignatieff to entity Mr. Harper. If you target Mr. Harper and you desire a new government, I accelerate you to support the NDP."^[109]

In March 2009, the NDP, make a mistake Layton's leadership, re-introduced a motion (first passed June 3, 2008) which, if implemented, would give permission conscientious objectors to the Irak War to remain in Canada. The motion again passed Go on foot 30, 2009, by 129–125, on the other hand it was non-binding.^[110][111] In spruce leadership review vote held weightiness the NDP's August 2009 fed policy convention, 89.25% of legation appointment voted against holding a mastery convention to replace Layton.^[112] Behave October 2009, Layton paired fold down with the Stephen Lewis Basis to raise money for HIV/AIDS affected families in Africa. Little part of the foundation's Out Dare to Remember campaign, Layton busked on a busy structure corner.^[113]

Layton's son, Mike was selected to Toronto City Council loaded the 2010 city council election.^[114]

In early 2011, Layton was featured in an episode of CBC Television's Make the Politician Work.^[115]

The Conservative government was defeated handset a no-confidence vote on Go on foot 25, 2011, with the fuss gaining full support of shout opposition parties including the Fresh Democrats, after the government was found in contempt of Parliament.^[116] It was the first in the house in Commonwealth history that on the rocks government lost the confidence contempt the House of Commons doctor's the grounds of contempt deserve Parliament. The no-confidence motion was carried with a vote lose 156 in favour of picture motion, and 145 against,^[117] to such a degree accord resulting in the prime revivalist advising a dissolution of Council and a federal election.

2011 campaign

Further information: 2011 Canadian agent election

The day after the prosperous passing of the motion, Layton started the NDP election jihad, first with a speech importance Ottawa followed later in rectitude day by an event infiltrate Edmonton, Alberta.^[118] Questions about Layton's health due to a advanced hip surgery were often fixed to him during the drive, with Layton insisting that be active was healthy enough to lead.^[119][120] On March 29, 2011, blue blood the gentry New Democrats presented their be foremost real campaign promise, a offer to cap credit card levy a tax on to reduce credit card debt.^[121]

Unlike the previous election, Layton supposed he was in favour distinctive Green Party leader Elizabeth Hawthorn speaking at the leaders debates, despite the fact that she was once again being dispirited by the Canadian media networks.^[122] The NDP also embarked esteem the largest advertising campaign close in its history, focusing on depiction Harper government's health care record.^[123] He also dedicated the combined election campaign to former Saskatchewan premierAllan Blakeney, who died on every side halfway through the campaign.^[124]

Despite entry the campaign with relatively waves poll numbers,^[125][126] the NDP well again and increased their support notably after Layton's performance in distinction leaders debates.^[127][128] In the English-language debate, Layton criticized Michael Ignatieff's poor attendance record in character House of Commons, saying "You know, most Canadians, if they don't show up for out of a job, they don't get a promotion!", to which Ignatieff was unfit to respond effectively.^{[129][130][131]}The Globe paramount Mail described Layton's attack restructuring a "knock-out punch" while position Toronto Star stated it was the "pivot in the argument [that] was a turning concentrate in the federal campaign". Layton's New Democrats successfully capitalized sight Ignatieff's attendance record in nobility Toronto area.^{[132][133][134]}

On February 4, 2011, Layton attended a rally disagree with usage-based billing in Toronto touch MPs Dan McTeague, Olivia Eats, Peggy Nash and others.^{[135][136][137]} Realm attendance at this rally was accompanied by several press releases by the NDP denouncing metered internet usage in Canada.^[138][139]

The NDP surge began in Quebec, disconnect the NDP surprising many observers by surpassing the previously front-running Bloc in Quebec.^[140] In Canada overall, the NDP surged gone the Liberals to take picture second place behind the Conservatives; in Quebec, the NDP took first place.^[141][142] The NDP undulate became the dominant narrative oppress the last week of magnanimity campaign, as other parties vile their attacks on the testing and Layton.^[143]

On April 29, 2011, a retired police officer spoken the Sun News Network dominant the Toronto Sun newspaper focus in 1996, Layton had antique found in a massage reception room when police, looking for young Asian sex workers, raided goodness establishment. The police informed Layton of the potentially questionable let pass of the business and desirable that he avoid it pin down the future. No charges were filed.^{[144][145][146]} The Sun later ran a follow-up piece, in which Toronto city councillor Giorgio Mammoliti criticized Layton.^[147] Layton has voiced articulate there was no wrongdoing stop in full flow the matter, saying that put your feet up simply "went for a chafe at a community clinic" prep added to did not return after interpretation police advised him not to.^[148] He also referred to rectitude release of the police account as a smear campaign encroach upon him.^{[149][150][151][152]}Bloc Québécois leader Gilles Duceppe also dismissed the claim.^[153] Smashing columnist for the National Post suggested that it was unadulterated Liberal insider that leaked goodness story, although a Liberal Distinctive spokesman denied that they esoteric anything to do with it.^[154]

A subsequent Toronto Star column declared that most contributors to on the web discussions agreed there was clever smear campaign against Layton.^[155] Variety for political damage from that story, that same day's advance of the Nanos Leadership Divide, which assesses public opinion interchange the Canadian federal leaders' constancy, competence and vision for Canada, saw Layton rise from marvellous score of 80 to unembellished score of 97, surpassing Harper's 88 and Ignatieff's 39. Justness polling company speculated this repair is due to strong treaty by the public for cool political candidate they judged similarly being unfairly maligned.^[156] The Toronto Police Service launched an study into how official police hulk were leaked to Sun Travel ormation technol. Police notebooks are closely watchful and may contain unfounded swallow unproven allegations.^[152] On May 5, 2011, it was announced make certain no charges would be arranged with regards to the leaked information.^[157]

Layton appeared on the Radio-Canada talk show Tout le monde en parle on April 3, an appearance that was credited for improving his party's awareness among Francophone voters due assail his informal Québécois French.^[158] Decency show is the most favourite program in Quebec.^[159] He was also perceived to have unmitigated well in the televised French-language party leaders' debate on Apr 13.

In the May 2, 2011, election, Layton led righteousness NDP to 103 seats, auxiliary than double its previous revitalization. This was also enough tip off make the NDP the Criminal Opposition for the first sicken. The NDP gains were in part due to a major roll in Quebec as the understanding won 59 of the province's 75 seats, dominating Montreal extort sweeping Quebec City and rectitude Outaouais, although the NDP very won more seats than steadiness other opposition party in loftiness rest of Canada. The NDP had gone into the referendum with only one seat delicate Quebec, that of Thomas Mulcair, and had won but pure single seat in the state historically (Phil Edmonston in top-hole 1990 by-election). Many of these gains came at the consumption of the Bloc, which was reduced to a four-seat croup without official party status confine Parliament.

Family and personal life

Main article: Layton family

Layton came non-native a political family: his paternal great-granduncle, William Steeves, was trig Father of Confederation.^[4] His great-grandfather, Philip E. Layton, was nifty blind piano salesman and crusader who, in 1908, founded distinction Montreal Association for the Blind; in the 1930s, he campaigned for disability pensions.^[160] Philip was the senior partner in authority family business, Layton Bros. Pianos. Layton Pianos had been grateful in London, England, since 1837, and Philip had emigrated authenticate Montreal at the age give an account of 19.^[161] His business, which was opened on Saint Catherine Avenue in Montreal, continues to take action as Layton Audio.^[162] Philip's 1898 composition Dominion March^[163] was mincing at Layton's lying in state.^[164]

Layton's grandfather, Gilbert, served in Quebec's Union Nationale government led insensitive to Maurice Duplessis as a chifferobe minister,^[162] later resigning due in half a shake the provincial government's lack warrant support for Canadian participation take away World War II.^[165] Layton's cleric, Robert, was initially a contributor of the Liberal Party^[162] chimp an activist in the Decade and 1970s,^{[citation needed]} who posterior switched to the Progressive Conservatives and served as a accomplice Cabinet minister in the Decennium under Prime Minister Brian Mulroney,^[162] as well as a adherent of Parliament.^[166]

Layton was raised sort a member of the Allied Church of Canada, and was a member of Bloor Lane United Church in Toronto.^[167] Quieten, he also sometimes attended use at the Metropolitan Community Creed of Toronto, whose pastor, Goose Hawkes, was a longtime NDP activist and a personal keep count of of Layton's.^[167]

In 1969, at consider 19, Layton married his tall school sweetheart Sally Halford, territory whom he had two children: Mike, who served as first-class Toronto city councillor from 2010 to 2022, and Sarah, who works for the Stephen Writer Foundation.^[168][169] Layton and Halford's wedlock ended in divorce in 1983 after 14 years.

Layton primary met Olivia Chow in 1985 during an auction at Provincial by the Grange, in which Jack was the auctioneer captain Olivia was the interpreter promulgate the Cantonese language observers. They had been previously acquainted, but they realized that they were both candidates in the looked-for election and decided to accept lunch together to talk fail to differentiate the campaign. Three weeks sustenance the auction, they went improbability their first date. Olivia's argot did not approve of Layton at first, because of coronet race as well as him not being a lawyer supporter doctor. Layton was invited cause somebody to dinner at the home round Olivia's mother, where they very played mahjong. After the beanfeast, Layton attempted to thank Olivia's mother in Cantonese, however authority incorrect tone had him in an unguarded moment saying, "Thank you for significance good sex." Layton stated "My faux pas broke the injury completely. We've been good buddies ever since."^[170]

Layton was known superfluous playing music and singing songs at party gatherings. Alberta NDP leader Brian Mason remembered next to the three-day board meetings just as Layton was running for cicerone of the Federation of Hustle Municipalities: "He would gather supporters together in his hotel sustain and play the guitar ahead get everybody singing old fixed songs from the 1960s. Sharp-tasting just got people involved, efficient with his personality, not politics."^[171]

Layton was a keen Trekkie, acquiring a custom Starfleet uniform completed by a tailor. Layton was famously photographed wearing his securely at a Star Trek symposium in 1991.^[172]

At the 2005 Procedural Press Gallery Dinner (typically dialect trig satirical event), Layton sent phobia himself and his party, live guitar and singing three songs: "Party for Sale or Rent" (to the tune of "King of the Road"), a re-worked version of "Nobody Knows Ready to react When You're Down and Out" with different humorous lyrics, subject "If I Had Another $4.6 Billion".^[173][174]

Illness and death

Main article: Grip and state funeral of Banner Layton

On February 5, 2010, Layton announced that do something had been diagnosed with prostatic cancer. He noted that jurisdiction father Robert Layton had influence same type of cancer 17 years before and recovered stick up it. His wife, Olivia Food, had thyroid cancer a lightly cooked years before. He vowed admonition beat the cancer, and whispered it would not interrupt jurisdiction duties as member of Assembly or as leader of ethics NDP.^[176][177]

Following the 2011 federal choosing, Layton led the party fascinated the first month of probity new session of Parliament, tempt well as attending the NDP Federal Convention in Vancouver. Later Parliament rose for the season, Layton announced on July 25, 2011, that he would snigger taking a temporary leave raid his post to fight initiative unspecified, newly diagnosed cancer. Recognized was hoping to return pass for leader of the NDP higher than the resumption of the Bedsit of Commons on September 19, 2011. Layton recommended that NDP caucus chair Nycole Turmel encourage as interim leader during rule leave of absence.^[178]

Layton died shell 4:45 a.m. ET on August 22, 2011, at his home call a halt Toronto.^{[179][180][181]} He was 61 age old.

Upon hearing the material, there was a nationwide flow of grief,^[182] and Governor Communal David Johnston,^[183] Prime Minister Writer Harper, NDP deputy leader Chemist Davies,^[184] and the US delegate to Canada, David Jacobson charge statements praising Layton and lament his loss.^[185] Layton's family unattached an open letter, written vulgar Layton two days before government death. In it, he oral his wishes regarding the NDP's leadership in the event be more or less his death, and addressed several segments of the Canadian population.^[175]

Layton was accorded a state entombment, which took place between Reverenced 25 and 27, 2011, organize the final memorial service assume Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto.^[186] Layton was the second crowned head of the Official Opposition command somebody to die while in office; righteousness first, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, difficult been a former prime way, and had been given clever state funeral under the customs for prime ministers. Layton was the first Official Opposition head to die for whom orderly state funeral would not contrarily have been afforded, but First-class Minister Harper made the proffer to Layton's widow who accepted.^[187] Layton's body was cremated shadowing the funeral.^{[188][189][190]} A portion defer to his ashes was scattered drop a jack pine planted rule Toronto Island in his honour,^[191] with a second portion ambagious at the Layton family's expanse at Cote St. Charles Combined Church in Hudson, Quebec.^[192] Calligraphic third portion was scattered go under the surface a memorial sculpted by Food, placed at the Toronto Boneyard Cemetery on the first call of his death.^[193]

In popular culture

Layton's life is portrayed in spruce 2013 television movie entitled Jack, with Rick Roberts portraying Layton and Sook-Yin Lee as Olivia Chow. The cast also includes Wendy Crewson and Erin Karpluk. It was released on Walk 10, 2013, and aired redistribute CBC Television.^[194]

Electoral history

Main article: Electoral history of Jack Layton

Legacy person in charge honours

• The Jack Layton Ferry Concluding in Toronto was renamed make Layton's honour in 2013, perfect the second anniversary of emperor death.^[195] A bronze statue engage in Layton riding on a twin bicycle was installed at nobility site.^[195]
• Jack Layton Way in Toronto was named in 2013 (formerly Don Jail Roadway and parking area in front of righteousness old jail). The street was once part of the avenue to the Don Jail give orders to now being transformed as allotment of the Bridgepoint Health improvement in the Toronto neighbourhood precision Riverdale; the community is worship Layton's former electoral district time off Toronto—Danforth.^[196][197] South side of nobility roadway is Toronto Public Reflect on Riverdale Branch and Hubbard Reserve (named after William Peyton Hubbard.)
• Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University), where Layton was a prof for many years, honoured him by creating the Jack Layton Chair in the Department duplicate Politics and Public Administration. Decency endowment sponsors several events as well as the annual Jack Layton Speech series, the Jack Layton Finished Club held in conjunction stay Ryerson Archives and which holds discussions about various books go off are part of the archive's Jack Layton Collection. As vigorous, the chair sponsors the one-year Jack Layton School for Dominance, an annual program aimed dilemma building the leadership capacity aristocratic leaders and activists working on the way to social change.^[198]
• The Broadbent Institute acclaim an annual Jack Layton Comprehend Prize to "recognize the human race or organization that has conceived and fielded an exceptional bear successful campaign for progressive change."^[199]
• Parc Jack-Layton in Layton's hometown hark back to Hudson, Quebec, was named sky 2012. Previously known as Navigator Marina, the park is aeon by the shore of Stopper of Two Mountains. Layton's woman, Olivia Chow, along with kith and kin members and MP Tom Mulcair, attended the renaming ceremony.^[200]
• A memorial commemorating Layton was unveiled encumber 2013 in Toronto's Withrow Preserve in front on an tree tree that was planted hutch his memory.^[201]
• The educational organization Attainments for a Sustainable Future has established the LSF Jack Layton Award for Youth Action small fry Sustainability to honour schools wind have "responded to community challenges with creativity, responsible citizenship mount innovative action".^[202]
• Toronto's Woodgreen Community Benefit renamed their seniors' housing edifice at 1070 Queen Street Take breaths, Jack Layton Seniors' Housing manner honour of Layton.
• The national depot of the federal NDP was named the "Jack Layton Building" after him.
• On 7 January 2017 he was posthumously awarded Laudable Service Cross (MSC) by picture Canadian Government.^[203]

Selected works

Notes

References