South Africa's Openly Gay Judge on High Court

Edwin Cameron has been appointed as a judge to the South African Constitutional Court, the highest court in the country. This appointment by President Mothlanthe is so remarkably groundbreaking as Cameron is openly gay and HIV positive. Cameron went public regarding his HIV status following the stabbing and stoning of Gugu Dlamini, an individual killed after she disclosed her status on a radio show.

Cameron has long been a leader in South Africa for civil rights. Prior to this appointment he served as a justice on the Supreme Court of Appeal where he used his power to advocate on behalf of the LGBT community and the HIV/ AIDS community. He has co-authored several books including Witness to AIDS, his personal memoir reflecting on his life as an HIV positive person and Defiant Desire: Gay and Lesbian Lives in South Africa. Last year he spoke before the International AIDS Conference in Mexico about the need for a global decriminalization of homosexuality stating this is needed to help with the fight against HIV.

This appointment was a very bold, progressive step by the South African President. The country is making tremendous strides towards equality for all its citizens. Congratulations to Cameron. I'm sure he will do a phenomenal job in his new position.