Context:
People observe Nelson Mandela Day on July 18 every year. The United Nations (UN) had in 2009 declared July 18 as Nelson Mandela Day to honour Nelson Mandela.
History
Nelson Mandela International Day, also known as Mandela Day, is an international observance in honor of the revolutionary Nelson Mandela, celebrated annually on his birthday, on July 18. The United Nations officially set the day in November 2009, and they held the first observance of Mandela Day on July 18, 2010.
Nelson Mandela International Day shines a light every year on the legacy of a man whose monumental achievements changed the 20th century and shaped the 21st. His values and determination reflect a deep commitment to human rights, freedom, and justice, inspiring others. Mandela advocated for the rightful dignity and equality of every living person, and encouraged engagement and solidarity across all borders. He paralleled his relentless pursuit for equality with his status as the founding father of peace in South Africa.
Nelson Mandela remains a symbol of power by resisting oppression. In times of turbulence, Mandela’s legacy teaches everyone to choose dignity over humiliation, speak up during injustice, and forgive rather than hate. He once said, “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” The UN General Assembly established the Nelson Mandela Prize in 2014, an award that recognizes the achievements of those who have gone far and beyond to serve humanity.
Theme
With the theme Climate, Food & Solidarity, we are calling on our partners and the public to take action against climate change and create food-resilient environments in solidarity with communities across the world facing crisis due to climate change. This year, the call to action is, “It’s in your hands”.
Significance
Nelson Mandela Day signifies the importance of serving humankind and working for those who cannot fight on their own. Mandela Day is a global call to action which celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to bring a change and make an impact on society. This day plays a significant role in honoring the legacy of Nelson Mandela, the former South African President. They originally launched this day, also known as ‘46664’, to create awareness about HIV/AIDS. South African and foreign musicians played a series of AIDS benefit concerts called 46664 in honor of Nelson Mandela between 2003 and 2008.
How to celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day
The heart of Nelson Mandela International Day is service to others and the creation of a better world for everyone. Get out there and find the injustices in your neighborhood, city, or state and do everything you can to help alleviate them. Do not think that such grand gestures as those made by Mandela are necessary, it takes every small effort of everyone working together to create a world that’s fair and just for everyone. Work in soup kitchens, marched with protesters, volunteer in local organizations and work to help bring about civil liberties for everyone. Inspire change, and make every day a celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day.
FAQs about Nelson Mandela International Day
A1: Nelson Mandela International Day, also known as Mandela Day, is an international observance held on July 18 each year to honor the revolutionary leader Nelson Mandela. It was officially established by the United Nations in 2009 and has been celebrated annually since 2010.
A2: Nelson Mandela International Day was created to recognize and honor Nelson Mandela’s legacy and his contributions to human rights, freedom, and justice. It serves as a reminder of the importance of Mandela’s values and principles and encourages people to take action to make a positive difference in their communities and the world.
A3: The theme for Nelson Mandela International Day varies each year. One example is the theme “Climate, Food & Solidarity,” which emphasizes taking action against climate change and creating food-resilient environments in solidarity with communities affected by climate change. The theme guides the focus of activities and initiatives undertaken on this day.
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