About Ed Broadbent

“We know it’s desirable and possible to create a Canada with more involvement by our citizens, a Canada where we see our neighbours, not as competitors but as friends, a Canada that is healthier and happier in every respect. Our task is to demonstrate in every conceivable way, that with more equality this Canada is possible.”

A champion for ordinary Canadians and tireless advocate for democratic institutions, Ed Broadbent was devoted to improving the lives of all Canadians. Throughout his 7-decade career, Broadbent fought for justice and equality, making great strides in the advancement of the rights of disadvantaged persons. Broadbent will be remembered as a great thinker whose kindness, charisma and sense of humour could bring Canadians together.

Born in Oshawa, Ontario, in 1936, John Edward Broadbent demonstrated an interest in politics at a young age. As a high school student, he paid attention to the role democratic institutions could play in improving all lives, and thus was born his passion and dedication to the fight for equal rights. He earned a degree in philosophy from the University of Toronto, graduating in 1959. Broadbent then pursued postgraduate studies at the London School of Economics, before returning to the University of Toronto where he obtained a doctorate in political theory, graduating in 1966.

Ed Broadbent was elected to the House of Commons in 1968 as a member of the New Democratic Party of Canada (NDP). He was a member of Parliament for the riding of Oshawa-Whitby for 7 years before becoming leader of the NDP in 1975, a position he held until 1989, when he retired from politics. During his 14-year leadership, Broadbent argued for the abolition of capital punishment, and advocated for the rights of same-sex couples to marry. He also focused his efforts on Indigenous rights, women’s equality, child poverty, ethics in government, electoral reform and tax equality.

Between 1990 and 1996, Ed Broadbent served as president of the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development. He made a brief return to the House of Commons from 2004 to 2006 when he was elected as member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre, under the NDP leadership of Jack Layton.

In 2011, Ed Broadbent founded the Broadbent Institute, an Ottawa-based think-tank dedicated to progressive change focused on income inequality, democratic renewal, green economy and social democracy. He remained active as founder and as member of the Board of Directors while teaching political science at several universities in Canada and abroad.

Ed Broadbent has been recognized by many for his accomplishments. He notably received several honorary doctorates and was made a Companion of the Order of Canada in 2001. His devotion to public life leaves behind a lasting legacy, moving Canada towards a more just and inclusive society.