Statement on the passing of Brian Mulroney
TIBOR KOLLEY/THE GLOBE AND MAIL
The Broadbent Institute is saddened to learn of the passing of the Right Honourable former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.
Together, Brian Mulroney and Ed Broadbent established the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development in 1988 to "encourage and support the universal values of human rights and the promotion of democratic institutions and practices around the world." Mulroney appointed Broadbent as Rights and Democracy’s first president, which enabled Ed to build solidarity and social democracy globally.
Ed felt a strong respect for Prime Minister Mulroney as someone who could also see the value of human rights, breaking with Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan on the issue of South African Apartheid, and recognition of Canada’s wrongful internment of Japanese-Canadians during the Second World War. After they left active electoral politics, they remained in occasional contact, sharing mutual respect despite their political differences. Following the passing of Ed Broadbent on January 11, 2024, Mulroney reflected on his legacy and said that Canadians should remember Ed Broadbent “with respect, affection and admiration.” Though formidable political opponents in Parliament, Broadbent and Mulroney found common ground to work together on issues of human rights and democracy.
The Broadbent Institute recognizes the common values and legacy shared with a legendary Canadian political figure, and sends its condolences to the Mulroney family.
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Ed Broadbent Democracy Fund Launched
OTTAWA -- As the famous Canadian political philosopher, and Broadbent’s lifelong friend, Charles Taylor, put it, “Ed always stood for decency and a belief that Canada could provide a better life for all, one based on mutual respect.” In his final speech to Parliament, Ed underlined that we must focus on what brings us together across partisan division: “On 75% of the issues we’re on the same side… we tend to think that those 25% of issues that divide us are the only things that matter.”
The Ed Broadbent Democracy Fund is a non-partisan initiative dedicated to the promotion of democratic values and practice. The Fund is being led and supported by Ed’s friends and colleagues from across the political spectrum. Its first project will be to support the Broadbent Institute’s Emerging Leaders Program.
“By equipping a diverse group of emerging leaders from across Canada with skills and mentorship opportunities, we are ensuring the longevity and health of our country’s democratic institutions,” said Jen Hassum, the Executive Director of the Broadbent Institute.
Bill Knight who served as an MP with Ed, and has been a strong champion of the Institute since its creation said, “Ed was increasingly concerned about inspiring the next generation to defend democracy and to fight the undermining of freedoms. He taught us that democracy is alive but needs constant renewal.”
Manon Massé, Québec solidaire MNA for Sainte-Marie-Saint-Jacques and former party co-leader, remembers “The way he listened and made a real effort to understand our point of view earned Ed Broadbent the respect of Quebeckers, despite his laborious (but enthusiastic!) French and our differences on the national question. Proud of his working-class origins, I always appreciated that he stayed true to his ideas and to his political battles.”
Ed Broadbent was elected in 1968 and became leader of the federal NDP in 1975. In 1988, he launched the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development, pioneering Canada’s support of democracies around the world. He created the Broadbent Institute in 2011, now Canada’s largest and most influential progressive think tank - and a leader in training, media, and advocacy.
Please visit the Ed Broadbent Democracy Fund’s web page launched this week for more information.
Register to Join Us in Celebrating the Life of Ed Broadbent
On Sunday, January 28, the Government of Canada will host a state funeral to honour Ed Broadbent. This event is not only a tribute to the life of Ed Broadbent but also a heartfelt opportunity for those who admired him to come together, share memories, and celebrate a life that exemplified true dedication and public service.
If you are interested in attending the state funeral, please click the button below to complete the registration form.
Please Note: Your registration is required to attend this event. However, capacity within the venue will be limited. Register now before the space is filled to be eligible to receive a formal invite from Canadian Heritage via email with further details.
Statement on the Prime Minister’s Announcement of State Funeral for the Honourable Ed Broadbent
The Broadbent Institute and Broadbent family welcome the announcement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that a state funeral will be held for Ed Broadbent, who passed away on January 11, 2024. This honour stands as a profound testament to Ed Broadbent’s enduring contributions and his unwavering dedication to the well-being of ordinary Canadians.
Ed Broadbent was a respected academic and Member of Parliament, Leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada, the first President of the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development, and he was honoured as a Companion of the Order of Canada. This public tribute acknowledges his steadfast advocacy for equality and the pursuit of the good society, and recognizes Ed’s pivotal role in enshrining the rights and liberties for all peoples in the laws and constitution of our nation.
“Canada is better off because of Ed Broadbent’s selfless service. An advocate for equality and a champion for justice, his commitment to helping others never wavered. This state funeral will provide an opportunity to pay tribute to his incredible legacy – one that will, no doubt, continue to inspire generations of Canadians.” – The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
As outlined in the release by the Prime Minister’s Office, the state funeral will be held in Ottawa on Sunday, January 28, 2024. It will offer all Canadians an opportunity to grieve, celebrate and reflect on Ed’s legacy as a champion for human rights and economic democracy. Further details will be provided as they become available.
