Lutuli’s intelligence, grace, strength and deep kinship
With others awoke a watching world, growing distressed
As South Africa’s leadership maintained their vice-like grip
On all Black expressions of free speech, assembly and press.
He wrote, “the past thirty years have seen the greatest number
Of laws restricting our rights . . . our only asset cattle.”
“I have joined my people in the new spirit that moves them . . .
That revolts in a determined and non-violent manner.”
In Oslo, he called it a “paradox” to win
Such a prestigious award, as he was “a citizen
Of a country where the brotherhood of man
Is an illegal doctrine,” militarily controlled and banned.
He lived the rest of his life subject to their bans.
He never lived the life of a free man.
June Edvenson 