The joy of politics

Andrew Cash recalls his introduction to politics.

On a bracing day in February 2010, we mainstreeted along St. Clair, saying hello at cafés and small businesses. Two hours and four espressos later, Jack had delighted cashiers, business owners, seniors and hipsters alike. But I also saw the delight in his eyes; the whole experience for him was enlivening, positive – and hopeful. 

An hour before a fundraiser, I was standing outside the Dakota Tavern when I received a text from Jack, from his hospital bed where he was recovering from hip surgery: “I can call in via speaker phone on a BlackBerry and you can put it up to the microphone and I can say a few words to the folks,” he offered.

Now magazine has posted stories from its archives covering Jack Layton’s entire political career and Adam Radwanski recalls a few moments with the NDP leader.