To mark the birth anniversary of the South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, Nelson Mandela, the whole world celebrates International Nelson Mandela Day on July 18 every year.
Nelson Mandela is considered by many to be the father of South Africa. Mandela was an anti-Apartheid activist, which means that he fought for those who were disadvantaged by the system of racial segregation. Mandela became a civil rights leader, leading many against the Apartheid government.
In 2009, President Jacob Zuma first introduced the concept of Mandela Day to motivate a nationwide campaign to get the public involved in charitable activities. In November 2009, the General Assembly of the United Nations (UNGA) paid tribute to Dr Nelson Mandela by adopting a resolution to make the international community aware of his humanitarian work.
From 2010, 18 July was declared by the UNGA as International Nelson Mandela Day. Nelson Mandela Day not only celebrates Nelson Mandela’s life, but it is also a global call to action for people to recognize their ability to have a positive effect on others around them.
Nelson Mandela’s daughter passes away
Remembering Nelson Mandela, a leader with a difference
International Mandela Day: Following in Madiba’s footsteps
Mandela Day 2019: 10 Inspiring quotes by South Africa’s first black president