Accolades continues to pour in after St. Catharines MPP remembers former staffer and popular Pride activist

Niagara | St Catharines | Community | People | Politics |

By

Published January 3, 2023 at 4:36 pm

Liam Coward and St. Catharines MPP Jennie Stevens pose on a bus on their way to an event. (Photo: Jennie Stevens Facebook)

The St. Catharines community continued its outpour of love and affection after the news that local Pride activist Liam Coward passed away suddenly on New Year’s Eve.

St. Catharines MPP Jennie Steven remembered Coward fondly as a former staffer in her office.

“He was the best of all of us – smart, funny, principled, with the type of instincts that can’t be taught. A real community organizer and a true activist at heart,” said Stevens.

“At the risk of sounding like I am using a platitude, Liam was a light. Everyone just wanted to be around him. He was fearless about calling out hypocrisy, about standing up for principles and people. He was more brave than all of us.”

She remembered his laugh as “larger than life itself” and that his personality “left a lasting impression on anyone he met.”

The MPP reflected, “I will remember his smile, his warmth, his energy, his booming voice, his love for life, community and values, but also the activists, colleagues and constituents he supported, many of whom over time also became his friends. He made a difference in the lives of many. It is my hope we can all join together and celebrate his life.”

She thanked Coward for “brightening up every gloomy day with your rainbow raincoat.”

Posters on the MPP’s Facebook page also had fond memories of Coward.

“I remember the Labour Day parade. It was raining buckets that day,” said one poster. “And out of the gloom with a smile that was like sunshine and a rainbow coat came Liam! He was a wonderful beacon that day. RIP Liam. Your footprint on this community will always be there.”
Another noted, “You could feel Liam’s energy when he entered any room.”


St. Catharines Ward 1 councillor Greg Miller, bottom right, posted a selfie of himself and Liam Coward, bottom centre, with some friends with his memories posted on social media yesterday. (Photo: Greg Miller Twitter) 

insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising