Message from ANC President, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, to Arthur Krim on the occasion of the people for the American Way Award ceremony

8 November 1992

South Africa, located as it is on the very tip of the African continent,
could easily be a country naturally isolated from the world. But history tells
us a different story. Despite great distances the impact of new ideas, of the
courage of extraordinary human beings, has been felt among our people.

Noble principles guide our objectives, not least among them individual and
national liberty, as well as respect for fellow human beings irrespective of
race, colour or creed.

Such ideals are all-important in a society in transition: the need to combat
both religious and political intolerance, the urgency to foster a climate of
debate, the imperative to defend the public's right to civil protest in order to
achieve a vibrant, open and truly pluralistic democracy.

We in South Africa, who have known decades of racial oppression and the
denial of freedom of speech, take pleasure in numbering among our friends Arthur
Krim. His deep commitment to the elimination of apartheid and promotion of
non-racialism has left an indelible impression on many leading members of the
ANC. His warmth and hospitality has been experienced by such outstanding South
African freedom fighters are the late Johnstone Makatini, Oliver Tambo, Thabo
Mbeki and others.

It is this firm friendship that I, too, experienced when I met Arthur. It
made me realise how, despite the many miles that separate us, you have taken us
into your hearts and your lives.

The "Spirit of Liberty" Award symbolises your lifelong commitment to the
highest ideals humanity strives for. We extend our heartfelt congratulations,
knowing that these noble values cannot be contained by any force on earth. You
have helped spread them to far-off lands like ours, and for this our entire
people will be eternally grateful. We wish you a wonderful celebration you so
richly deserve.