Tunde Folawiyo | The Impact of Desmond Tutu on the Human Rights Movement

At the forefront of the human rights movement are a few key figures whose influence on today’s culture are immeasurable. Famed activists such as Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. forever impacted views of social injustices throughout the world, sparking a new era of thinking centered by equal rights for all. Citizens throughout Africa such as Tunde Folawiyo and countless others may continue to be inspired by the efforts of these brave men and women. Amongst the most notable of these figures is Desmond Tutu, famed for his involvement in opposing apartheid in South Africa.

Born in Klerksdorp, South Africa in October of 1931, Desmond Mpilo Tutu was born into an era in which black youth was subject to segregation. Graduating with a high school diploma in 1950, he studied education during his college years, earning a teacher’s certificate in 1953. With this, he went on to acquire a bachelor’s from one of South Africa’s foremost learning institutions.

Fuelled by frustration stemming from the racism endured during the era of South African apartheid, Tutu enrolled in a theological college where he became ordained as a deacon during 1960 and later a priest during 1961. He then went on to acquire a master’s in theology in 1966. Appointed Anglican Dean in Johannesburg during 1975, Tutu rose to worldwide fame as his voice became a prominent presence in the fight for civil rights in South Africa, a fight joined by activists such as Nelson Mandela. His efforts were recognised throughout Africa as he was appointed a variety of esteemed positions before later being awarded the esteemed Nobel Peace Prize in 1984. Later holding various roles within South Africa’s church system, Tutu was named Cape Town’s Archbishop in 1986.

Through the tireless activism of Tutu and many others throughout South Africa, an end to apartheid was decreed in 1993. Nelson Mandela was elected the country’s president during 1994 where Tutu introduced him to the masses. A moment of triumph following years of struggle, this would go down in history as an immense victory for human rights.

Since his retirement from the public eye during the 1990s, Tutu remains an active advocate in the fight for social inequality. He is a member of The Elders, a network of seasoned leaders such as Jimmy Carter, Kofi Annan and others. His stories of bravery in the face of adversity may continue to inspire African citizens such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others people throughout the world.