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So, as we mourn, let us also rejoice that his example moved every Canadian to aim higher. That his legacy will continue to nourish the spirit of everyone who struggles for justice and freedom anywhere. That the dream of Nelson Mandela will never die.

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He was led into the chamber by then-prime minister Brian Mulroney, whose leadership on the international stage against South African apartheid had been impressive.

It was one of the most memorable occasions ever to occur in the Commons, as both Mandela and Mulroney delivered speeches to a packed house.

“A historic moment is in sight,” said Mandela, as he thanked Mulroney and Canadians from all walks of life for supporting South Africa’s blacks.

“It will not be long now before we, as South Africans, stand up to proclaim that the apartheid fountainhead of racism throughout the world is no more and that political power has passed into the hands of the whole people.”

“Never should racism in our country, from whatever quarter, raise its ugly head again. All of us as South Africans, both black and white, must build a common sense of nationhood in which all ideas of vengeance and retribution are impermissible.”

In his speech, Mulroney told Mandela the world was “remarkably fortunate” to have a person of such “rare qualities” leading the movement for equality in South Africa.

“To emerge from prison after so long in incarceration and to retain an understanding of the concerns of your jailers is truly extraordinary,” said Mulroney.