Desmond Tutu

“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse, and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.”

Tutu was a South African Anglican bishop and theologian, known for his work as an anti-apartheid and human rights activist. He was Bishop of Johannesburg from 1985 to 1986 and then Archbishop of Cape Town from 1986 to 1996, in both cases being the first black African to hold the position.

In this current time of war and unrest I have continually thought of Desmond Tutu’s words. I have slowly been working on this icon since Tutu passed the day after Christmas 2021. He is someone who reflected joy with his contagious laugh but was ready to speak the truth and engage the serious pain, loss and injustice around him. The work of peace and reconciliation is a long road but it must be traveled.

Prints are available here in our store.

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