Meaning: The quote "I was working for the Socialist International, after I left university in 1959, as a researcher" by Stephen Lewis, a prominent Canadian politician, provides insight into a formative period in Lewis's career and his early engagement with political research and advocacy. This quote sheds light on Lewis's commitment to socialist ideology and his early involvement in political and social issues.

Stephen Lewis is a well-known figure in Canadian politics and international development. Born in 1937, he has had a distinguished career as a politician, diplomat, and advocate for global health and human rights. His work with the Socialist International, as referenced in the quote, underscores his early alignment with left-wing political movements and his dedication to addressing social and economic inequality.

The Socialist International is a worldwide organization of social democratic, socialist, and labor parties. It was established in 1951 and has since served as a platform for collaboration and exchange among political parties sharing progressive values. As a researcher for the Socialist International in the late 1950s, Lewis would have been immersed in the study of socialist principles, policies, and global political dynamics. This experience likely contributed to shaping his worldview and laying the groundwork for his future contributions to social and political causes.

During the late 1950s, the world was experiencing significant political and ideological shifts. The Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union was at its height, and the global struggle for decolonization and self-determination was gaining momentum. In this context, the work of organizations like the Socialist International was instrumental in shaping the discourse around democracy, social justice, and economic equality.

Lewis's role as a researcher for the Socialist International would have involved analyzing and synthesizing information on a range of topics, including international relations, economic systems, and social movements. This experience likely honed his analytical skills and deepened his understanding of the interconnectedness of global issues. Moreover, it would have provided him with the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals from diverse cultural and political backgrounds, broadening his perspective on the challenges facing the international community.

The quote also highlights Lewis's early entry into the field of research, indicating his intellectual curiosity and commitment to rigorous inquiry. As a researcher, he would have been tasked with gathering and interpreting data, conducting interviews, and producing reports that contributed to the knowledge base of the Socialist International. This early experience in research likely instilled in Lewis a respect for evidence-based decision-making and a nuanced approach to complex issues.

Furthermore, the quote offers a glimpse into Lewis's trajectory after completing his university education. It signals a deliberate choice to apply his academic training to real-world issues and to align himself with a political movement that sought to effect positive change on a global scale. This early commitment to social and political activism set the stage for Lewis's future leadership roles and his unwavering dedication to advancing social justice and equality.

In conclusion, the quote "I was working for the Socialist International, after I left university in 1959, as a researcher" encapsulates a pivotal moment in Stephen Lewis's early career and provides valuable insight into his ideological and professional development. It underscores his engagement with socialist principles, his immersion in global political dynamics, and his dedication to research and advocacy. This experience with the Socialist International likely contributed to shaping Lewis's worldview and laying the foundation for his future contributions to Canadian and international politics.