International Nelson Mandela Day

Held on : 18th July

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela is a former President of South Africa. He was the the First Elected President in a Democratic set up. He held office from 1994–99. Before his presidency, Mandela was an anti-apartheid activist and the leader of the African National Congress's armed wing Umkhonto we Sizwe. The South African courts convicted him on charges of sabotage, as well as other crimes committed while he led the movement against apartheid. In accordance with his conviction, Mandela served 27 years in prison, spending many of these years on Robben Island. Following his release from prison on 11 February 1990, Mandela supported reconciliation and negotiation, and helped lead the transition towards multi-racial democracy in South Africa.

Since the end of apartheid, many have frequently praised Mandela, including former opponents. In South Africa he is often known as Madiba, an honorary title adopted by elders of Mandela's clan. The title has come to be synonymous with Nelson Mandela. On April 27, 2009, 46664 and the Nelson Mandela Foundation invited the global community to join them in support of an official Mandela Day. Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world, the ability to make an imprint. The declaration of Nelson Mandela Day was introduced by South African Ambassador Baso Sangqu who described Mandela as an icon and a symbol of hope whose life mirrored United Nations’ ideals. The United Nations has declared 18 July “Nelson Mandela International Day” in recognition of the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom. The resolution was adopted on 10th November, 2009, by the 192-member General Assembly to commemorate the Nobel Peace Prize laureate’s long-standing commitment to promoting conflict resolution, race relations, human rights, reconciliation and gender equality. The Day will be observed annually on 18 July, starting in 2010 when the former anti-apartheid leader will turn 92 years old. The day in July was chosen because it is Nelson Mandela’s birthday. By adopting the resolution, the UN expressed its appreciation for a great man who had suffered for the sake of people everywhere, said Assembly President Ali Treki, recognizing Mr. Mandela’s 27-year imprisonment, most of which was spent in the notorious Robben Island detention centre off the coast of Cape Town.

To mark the first global celebration of Mandela Day on July 18, 2009, Nelson Mandela’s 91st birthday, a series of a series of educational, art exhibit, fund-raising and volunteer events leading up to a concert at Radio City Music Hall on July 18 were organized by 46664 and the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

Holiday Status - It is not a Public Holiday

Alternate Name - Nelson Mandela Day, Mandela Day