Desmond Tutu brief biography

During the uprising against apartheid in South Africa, Desmond Tutu supported an economic boycott of his own country. He understood disinvestment would potentially lead to additional suffering but he argued that at least the suffering would be “with a purpose.” The approach proved effective and disinvestment campaigns continue to be a cornerstone for many social causes to this day. His approach also included the organization of massive peaceful marches.

After the fall of apartheid, Tutu headed the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which was instrumental in healing the reeling nation's social divides. This reconciliatory approach and its attempt at restorative justice rather than the historically employed retributive justice following such human-rights violations has served as a model for other countries.
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Tutu received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 and continues to campaign to fight HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, poverty, racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia.