I also wish to use this opportunity to salute the brave leaders of the National Coalition for Gay and Lesbian Equality. Some of those who fought by my side in this organisation are Zackie Achmat, Simon Nkoli, Mazibuko Jara, Jonathan Berger, Kevin Botha, Nomfundo Luphondwana and Carrie Shelver. We also need to thank the staff of the Coalition. These die-hard individuals have sacrificed relationships, wealth and sometimes, happiness, all in our name. But most important among all of these people are the countless volunteers, from lawyers to unemployed youth, who made this struggle real in the streets.
Today marks the end of an era.
The National Coalition for Gay and Lesbian Equality is no more. But we have a new organisation in our midst that will be born today. The new champions of our cause. Let us all commit today to supporting this organisation that stands between us and discrimination, repression and inequality. I call on every person in South Africa to join us in the struggle for legal and social equality.