On the steps of Parliament Hill a photograph of Jack <strong>Layton</strong> is surrounded with flowers, a bottle of Orange Crush and other messages to commemorate the first anniversary of <strong>Layton</strong>'s death during a gathering on Parliament Hill, in Ottawa, Aug. 22, 2012.Fred Chartrand/The Canadian Press
A year after Jack Layton died, Canadians across the country are holding vigils to remember the NDP leader who led the party to an historic showing in the 2011 federal election.
More than that, many of his supporters say they remember him for his refreshing optimism. "His apparent kindness, compassion, and joyfulness broke through the veil of politics and the public mood of cynicism," one reader wrote to us.
What do Globe readers think was Mr. Layton's greatest legacy? Read more responses here.
Leave your thoughts below. We'll also include some pictures and stories from commemorations across the country.