The New Democratic Party or NDP is the farthest to the left of the three main national political parties in Canada. It originated in prairie populism and has remained true to its roots as the most pro-working class and pro-union parties in Canada. Although some of its platform became more attuned to urban issues such as homelessness under the late Jack Layton, both as a coalition partner and in opposition it has remained true to its ethical nature as a party that supports compassion towards the poor, the rights of workers, human rights, environmental responsibility and civil liberties.