In a long-overdue vote, U.S. lawmakers have erased the stigma of “terrorist” attached to former South African President Nelson Mandela.
 
As the former anti-apartheid leader was being honored in London’s Hyde Park for his anti-AIDS activism, U.S. Senators unanimously passed legislation lifting the designation. The House of Representatives approved the same action on May 8.
 
Mandela's name was placed on the U.S. terrorist watch list for his militancy in the African National Congress, which fought to end white minority rule in South Africa. The ANC was banned by South Africa's apartheid government in 1960.
 
"Passage of the bill to remove … Nelson Mandela and others who worked tirelessly to end the oppressive, inhumane system of apartheid in South Africa is a great victory for justice," said NJ Rep. Donald Payne. "I am gratified that we were able to show our respect and high esteem for a man who is loved and admired around the world."