Former New Democratic Party leader Ed Broadbent has died at the age of 87.
His death was announced on Thursday by the Broadbent Institute, an Ottawa-based think tank that he founded.
"Our country has lost a fierce champion for ordinary Canadians, an intellectual who strongly believed in building a good society," read the statement. "Ed devoted decades of his life to fighting for justice and equality in Canada and around the world."
Broadbent was first elected to Parliament in 1968. He served as a New Democrat MP for Oshawa Whitby for 21 years. He was leader of the federal NDP from 1975 to 1989, a time when the country was led by four prime ministers.
Broadbent returned to the House of Commons from 2004 to 2006 as the MP for Ottawa Centre.
"A steadfast advocate for equal rights, Ed played a pivotal role in enshrining rights and liberties for all peoples in our country's laws and constitution," the statement read. "He was a rare intellectual who could connect the challenges faced by ordinary citizens with the movements and institutions striving for economic democracy."
In a statement posted on social media, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada is better off because of Broadbent's selfless service.
"An advocate for equality and champion for justice, his commitment to helping others never wavered," said Trudeau in a statement. "He leaves behind an incredible legacy – one that will, no doubt, continue to inspire people across the country."
Broadbent was born in Oshawa on March 31, 1936.