When late former president Nelson Mandela opened the South African Jewish Museum in 2000 it was in the company of one of the most famous members of the South African Jewish community, former MP and anti-apartheid activist Helen Suzman. For many years, Suzman was the lone voice of opposition in the South African Parliament, speaking out against the National Party government. She used her position as an MP to pay visits to the many political prisoners who were jailed under the former regime. Suzman's fortitude gave hope and solace to those behind bars, including Mandela, hence his presence at the opening.