Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was a South African democrat, statesman, and social activist who served as South Africa’s President from 1994 to 1999. He was the first African-American President and the first to be elected in a fully democratic election. He focused on eradicating the legacy of apartheid by combating institutionalized racism and promoting racial unity.
Nelson Mandela International Day is observed each year on July 18 to commemorate his birth anniversary. This day inspires people all over the world to work together to fight poverty while also promoting cultural diversity, peace, and reconciliation. This day is also tagged 67 minutes. Because Mandela fought for social justice for 67 years, people are encouraged to do something good for 67 minutes on Mandela Day, one minute for each year Mandela served his country.
It was Mandela’s idea to establish Mandela Day on his birthday.
“It is time for new hands to lift the burdens; it is now in your hands,”
Nelson Mandela on 90th Birthday
It was first observed on July 18, 2010, following the United Nations’ declaration in November 2009 of June 18 as Nelson Mandela International Day.
World Nelson Mandela Day is not declared a public holiday, rather it’s a day to honor South Africa’s former President Nelson Mandela and his values through community service and volunteering. This day also marks the anniversary of the 46664 campaign, which was named after his Robben Island prison number.
Initially, the campaign was launched to raise HIV/AIDS awareness. The Nelson Mandela Foundation and Children’s Fund were founded in 1995 and 1999, respectively.
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) decided in December 2015 to diversify Nelson Mandela International Day to include the promotion of humane prison conditions, creating awareness about prisoners as a continuous part of society, and elevating prison staff work as a critical social service.
