A mother. A heroine. A comrade.
These were just some of the accolades scribbled in remembrance of Albertina Sisulu in a condolence book at her family’s Linden home.
“Like a baobab tree, you gave us shade in South Africa that we can some day get our freedom,” wrote Justice Minister Jeff Radebe.
“She will remain a mirror against which we will always be measured,” scrawled Reverend Frank Chikane. “Do we pass the test?”
In the next room, musician Johnny Clegg offered his condolences to the Sisulu family. “In the mid-80s I was part of the United Democratic Front (UDF) cultural movement, putting together a musicians’ alliance to bring musicians into the Struggle,” explained Clegg.
But the group had to caucus for support. MaSisulu, co-president of the UDF, was one of the leaders they approached for help. “She was a very practical person. She pointed out that musicians were not politically united… that rather than trying to bring everyone into the fold, we had to find universal political principles.”
Principles like freedom of movement, freedom of association and freedom of expression.
“That became the rallying call, helping us bring together people with different political associations.”
Clegg made his way out and relatives bustled in, and everywhere one looked were flowers – flowers on the pavement, in the passages, on the tables, and every other available flat surface.
Quietly and unobtrusively, Tony Marsay walked up and laid down his own simple bouquet next to the overflowing baskets on the pavement.
“I used to live up the road,” explained the former Linden resident. “When she (Sisulu) moved in about 10 years ago it caused quite a commotion. She sent a note to all the residents apologising for the disruption.
“I never knew her personally but, having lived in the area, I thought it would be nice,” Marsay said, “just to say goodbye.”