Tuesday August 23, 2011

Dear friends,

On behalf of the Toronto-Danforth Riding Association Executive I wanted to share my condolences regarding the loss of our friend, leader and Member of Parliament, Jack Layton.

It was no doubt with tremendous sadness and shock that we all heard the news of Jack's passing yesterday morning. While he certainly made an impact on the national stage, leading New Democrats to our best results ever in a Federal election, he was also an exceptional representative of his constituents here in Toronto-Danforth.

As we have seen, Jack was a fighter with extraordinary tenacity, integrity, good humour and humility. He inspired Canadians across the country to work towards equality, peace, social justice and environmental stewardship, but this was no more evident than by the number of volunteers here in the riding who were willing to work tireless hours to help Jack get elected and re-elected three times.

It was clear that Jack believed in the grassroots movement that is so active here in Toronto-Danforth, not just as a key to political success during elections, but between elections as well. He was always supportive of our efforts to build the NDP's membership here, was active in attending executive meetings either in person or by conference call, spoke at local 'Cinema Politica' movie nights, and hosted many events to thank local supporters and hear their ideas about making both our city and our country a better place. I am sure that Jack would encourage us to move forward with hope and optimism.

In the meantime, let us reflect on the legacy that Jack has left us with, as a man who personified the hopes and dreams of millions of Canadians, and as a leader who was able to articulate so well the passion and values of New Democrats across the country.

With sympathy,
Bryan Dale
President, Toronto-Danforth NDP Riding Association

P.S. If you have not already read Jack's letter to Canadians, please visit:
http://www.ndp.ca/letter-to-canadians-from-jack-layton

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