0 Mother of A Nation: South African Icon Albertina Sisulu Passes Away

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Mother of A Nation: South African Icon Albertina Sisulu Passes Away

Wednesday Jun 8, 2011 – by Leslie Pitterson

South Africa has lost an anti-apartheid activist and icon. Albertina Sisulu, considered by many to be the “mother of the nation,” has passed away at 92.
A woman of incredible strength, Albertina was the wife of Walter Sisulu, who served as Deputy President of the first ever African National Congress session under Nelson Mandela. The two were good friends, with Mandela serving as best man at the Sisulu wedding. Close friends throughout their lives, the two men served over 25 years in custody Robben Island.
During the time her husband was away, Albertina raised their five children and continued to campaign against apartheid. A trained nurse, she led the United Democratic Front throughout the 1980s bringing together religious and labor groups. Always committed to the role of women in the movement, she was active in the ANC’s women’s groups serving in parliament