Nelson Mandela has many accolades. He is an iconic figure who defeated the apartheid regime in South Africa. He was a human rights attorney, political prisoner, and international mediator. And he was the first president of a free South Africa to be elected democratically (no huge deal). Consequently, it is clear why the United Nations General Assembly would wish to commemorate his life. Nelson Mandela International Day, observed on July 18 — Nelson Mandela’s birthday — commemorates the notion that every individual has the capacity to transform the world and make an impact. In recognition of his 67 years of public service, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the United Nations request that you volunteer for 67 minutes.
The background of Nelson Mandela International Day
Nelson Mandela International Day, also known as Mandela Day, is an international celebration held annually on July 18 to honour the revolutionary Nelson Mandela. Mandela Day was established by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first celebration occurring on July 18, 2010.
Every year, Nelson Mandela International Day honours the legacy of a man whose monumental accomplishments transformed the 20th century and shaped the 21st. His profound commitment to human rights, freedom, and justice, as well as his values and resolve, serve as an inspiration to others. Mandela advocated for the inherent dignity and equality of all living beings, and promoted engagement and solidarity across all borders. His tireless pursuit of equality was paralleled by his status as South Africa’s founding father of peace.
Through his resistance to oppression, Nelson Mandela has remained a symbol of power. Mandela’s legacy instructs everyone to choose dignity over humiliation, to speak out against injustice, and to forgive rather than hate in times of turmoil. Once he stated, “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but also to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” The UN General Assembly established the Nelson Mandela Prize in 2014 to honour those who have gone above and beyond in their service to humanity.
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5 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT NELSON MANDELA
Mandela was one of the first black attorneys in South Africa.
Mandela was also the first black president of South Africa.
Mandela received the Nobel Peace Prize for his significant efforts to end apartheid.
Mandela’s given name is Rolihlahla, but one of his instructors gave him the nickname Nelson.
Many South Africans referred to Nelson Mandela as “Madiba,” a respectful title.
NELSON MANDELA INTERNATIONAL DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 18 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | July 18 | Thursday |
| 2025 | July 18 | Friday |
| 2026 | July 18 | Saturday |
| 2027 | July 18 | Sunday |
