South Africa’s Archbishop and anti-apartheid veteran Desmond Tutu has passed away at age 90

Tutu, a Nobel laureate and an anti-apartheid veteran, passed away in Cape Town at the age of 90, the country’s presidency said in a statement on Sunday. The passing of Tutu is “another chapter of bereavement in our nation’s farewell to a generation of outstanding South Africans who have bequeathed us a liberated South Africa,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said.

One of South Africa’s giants in the fight against the apartheid regime in the 20th century, Desmond Tutu remained a critical voice in the country’s politics throughout his life.

“An astounding gesture of generosity and kindness.” The Right Rev. Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop in the U.S. Episcopal Church recalls when the late Desmond Tutu stood up for him in a time of crisis.

What people are saying?

Sheila Jackson Lee So honored to have met Bishop Desmond Tutu! His wisdom on freedom and justice was without comparison. And with a peaceful spirit he still fought against the violence of war and eloquently stood for human rights. The world will miss greatly his moral.

Vice President Kamala Harris Archbishop Desmond Tutu was a fervent, vocal opponent of apartheid and committed champion of human rights. He inspired millions, not just in South Africa, but worldwide to stand with those fighting for freedom and justice. My thoughts are with his wife Leah and his entire family.