Named a troublemaker at birth who led a community out of trouble: Celebrating Nelson Mandela Day
Birth of a Legend
We all know about him one way or the other. We have heard of him as a great leader. We have read about him in history textbooks as the first Black President of South Africa who led the resistance to South Africa’s policy of apartheid in the 20th century. If we dig in more, we will get to know him as a Nobel Prize Winner. Yet, it is infamous that there is a day named after him and we celebrate it every 18th of July annually. So today, the title of my article will be that person, who was first known at birth as Rolihlahla, a Xhosa term colloquially meaning “troublemaker”, who later led his own community out of trouble, it is none other than the former South African president, apartheid activist Nelson Mandela.
Help at least 67 Minutes
The first celebrations of Nelson Mandela Day were held on the 18th of July 2010 after the date was officially announced by the United Nations in 2009. Commemorated on his birthday, Nelson Mandela International Day celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact. In honor of his 67 years of public service, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the United Nations suggest every person spend at least 67 minutes of their time helping others.
Celebrate the Legacy
“It is easy to break down and destroy. The heroes are those who make peace and build. ”
Nelson Mandela Day is a day to celebrate Mandela along with his undying achievements and contributions to the changing of the 20th century while shaping the 21st century. His commitment to human rights, justice and freedom and his relentless pursuit of equality not only impacted South Africa but surpassed all borders inspiring people to fight for their rights. Even today, he remains a symbol of power by resisting oppression. In times of turbulence, Mandela’s legacy teaches everyone to choose dignity over humiliation, to speak up for justice, and forgive rather than hate
