CAPE TOWN - This week we celebrated May Day by participating in COSATUs May Day events, and also by attending a tribute to the hard work of Father Michael Lapsley. (Pictured: Father Michael Lapsley, an angel and gift to the world)
Internationally, May Day was used to further the plight of immigrants. In downtown Los Angeles 60,000 marchers took to the streets waving banners stating All Men Are Created Equal and Shame on you Arizona, in response to the States new racist immigration policies which target Latinos. The world was united in its fight against discrimination. The words, Immigrants rights are workers rights were mirrored around the world, as marchers took to the streets to demand equality.
Father Michael Lapsleys ceremony was held in the St Georges Cathedral in Cape Town. Father Lapsley was actively involved in the fight against apartheid. 20 years ago, on 28th April 1990, Father Michael received a letter bomb in the post resulting in the loss of both his hands and one of his eyes. He was living in Zimbabwe in exile at the time. No one has ever been charged for this appalling crime. Undeterred, Father Lapsley works tirelessly as an activist and is the founder of several organisations including, Institute for the Healing of Memories and Friends of Cuba.
The event was a tribute to his endless efforts towards a better world. The event was filled with messages of support from dignitaries including Kgalema Motlanthe. Archbishop Desmond Tutu was the main speaker and in his speech called Father Lapsley an angel and gift to the world.
After the ceremony Father Lapsley took time to address a group of Zimbabweans, he said I know you are struggling and I know you have suffered. He offered solidarity, but also inspiration and hope. It is encouraging to know that such great people are concerned for the plight of Zimbabweans.
Post published in: News