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Ed Broadbent Dead at 87

Photo Credit: Canada’s NDP / Le NPD du Canada Facebook page

Former federal NDP Leader died yesterday

OTTAWA - A former leader of the federal New Democratic Party has passed away.

Ed Broadbent died yesterday at the age of 87. He served as a Member of Parliament for 23 years, representing his home riding of Oshawa Whitby for his first 21 years in office, and representing Ottawa Centre for his final two years.

Broadbent served as the leader of the federal NDP from 1975 to 1989.

He founded the Broadbent Institute as a progressive policy and training organization in 2011. The Ottawa-based think tank announced his death yesterday with Executive Director Jen Hassum issuing the following statement:

"Ed Broadbent's legacy is immeasurable and he has left an enduring mark on Canada. He stood tall in his commitment to democracy, equality, and a more inclusive society–always striving to better the lives of ordinary Canadians through his work. His visionary style of leadership and unwavering courage inspired generations. Ed’s absence leaves a void in our hearts. At the Broadbent Institute, we remain steadfast in our dedication to advancing his mission and working to build the good society he envisioned."

In a statement released on social media yesterday, current NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said Broadbend was a "mentor and a friend - a titan of social democracy - who was connected in a deep way to the struggles of working-class Canadians."

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