Tuesday, July 18th was Nelson Mandela International Day. The day was launched in recognition of Nelson “Madiba” Mandela’s birthday on 18 July 2009 via unanimous decision of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly.
It was inspired by a call Nelson Mandela made in 2008 for the next generation to take on the burden of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices when he said that “it is in your hands now.” The day is more than a celebration of Mandela’s life and legacy; it is a global movement to honour his life’s work and to change the world for the better. Whilst Guyana does not recognise or honour this day, around the world governments and non-government organisations have engaged in various activities.
Below is a message delivered by UN Secretary-General António Guterres to mark this year’s commemoration:
UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Nelson Mandela was a colossus of courage and conviction. A leader of immense achievement and extraordinary humanity. A giant of our times, whose legacy we best honour through action:
Action to expel the poison of racism, discrimination and hate; Action to extinguish the legacies of colonialism; And action to promote equality, human rights and above all, justice.
Today, poverty, hunger and inequality are on the rise. Countries are drowning in debt. The climate crisis is destroying the lives of those who have done the least to cause it.
And our unfair and outdated international financial system is not fulfilling its function as a global safety net.
We have it in our power to solve each of these problems.
So, as we commemorate Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy, let us be animated by his spirit of humanity, dignity and justice. Let us stand with women and girls, young people and change makers everywhere. And let us take action to build a better world.
Thank you
