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Tribute to Mike Terry

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Mike Terry

Mike Terry, who died suddenly on Tuesday 2 December, will be mourned by trade unionists everywhere who support the ongoing struggle for peace and democracy in Southern Africa. Mike was the Executive Secretary of the Anti- Apartheid Movement from 1975 to 1994 and worked closely with the TUC in calling for the isolation of apartheid South Africa and support for South African trade unionists.

From his days as a student leader in the late 1960s for more than 25 years Mike organised and mobilised. He helped build the Anti-Apartheid Movement from a pressure group in the 1970s to a mass movement in the 1980s, organising rallies of over 250,000 people and the huge Wembley Stadium concerts for Nelson Mandela in 1988 and 1990.

His principled commitment, patient diplomacy and ability to work with organisations across the political spectrum were unique and invaluable.

Mike worked closely with TUC General Secretary, Norman Willis, supplying information on British trade and investment in South Africa, and facilitating the presentation of the Gold Badge of Congress to Nelson Mandela in 1988. In 1990 he was one of the key figures in the Southern Africa Coalition which brought together the TUC, church groups and NGOs in one of the broadest ever international solidarity groupings.

After the 1994 freedom election in South Africa and the dissolution of the AAM, Mike retrained as a physics teacher and was a committed member of the NUT.

If you wish to send a message about Mike please send it to campaigns@actsa.org. There will be a memorial event to celebrate Mike's life in the New Year. Details from www.actsa.org

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