Young people are capable, when aroused, of bringing down the towers of oppression and raising the banners of freedom.

With freedom comes responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk has not ended yet.

Strong convictions are the secret of surviving deprivation; your spirit can be full even when your stomach is empty.

Our march to freedom is irreversible. We must not allow fear to stand in our way. Universal suffrage on a common voters' roll in a united, democratic and non-racial South Africa is the only way to peace and racial harmony.

Apartheid is a crime against humanity. Israel has deprived millions of Palestinians of their liberty and property. It has perpetuated a system of gross racial discrimination and inequality. It has systematically incarcerated and tortured thousands of Palestinians, contrary to the rules of international law. It has, in particular, waged a war against a civilian population, in particular children.

As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'd still be in prison.

The relations between a man and his or her god is a personal matter; you can't go out and challenge the belief of people in a superior being.