Mr. Nelson Mandela passed away last week at the age of 95. Many remember him for his instrumental role in dismantling apartheid in South Africa, fighting racism, his Nobel Peace Prize, and spending twenty-seven years in prison.
He was also critical in promoting all forms of civil rights. He advanced equality for women and the LGBT community. Due to his leadership, the South African Constitution prohibits discrimination based upon sexual orientation and gender. In 1996 when conflict occurred between ethnic groups, his leadership led to the women being involved in the peace process for the first time. While he was President, South Africa also signed the Convention of Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (“CEDAW”) Treaty.
While the world has lost an important figure, his legacy should continue to provide guidance and inspiration for those that continue to fight for equal rights.