On July 18, 2010, a new date was added to the calendar of international holidays - Nelson Mandela Day. It appeared in recognition of the former African president's enormous contribution to freedom and peace.
Nelson Mandela is a lifelong man who has dedicated his life to resolving racial conflicts, protecting and promoting human rights, and improving the lives of the poorest people in the Republic of South Africa. For his convictions and struggles, he spent 27 years in prison, and after leaving it, he became the first black president of South Africa, elected democratically. He was in this post from 1994 to 1999. And in 1993, the South African president was awarded the Nobel Prize.
In 2009, for a huge contribution to the cause of peace and humanism, the UN General Assembly decided to proclaim July 18 as the International Day of Nelson Mandela. This is Mandela's birthday, as well as the day of recognition of his life values, beliefs and dedicated service to humanity in the formation of the world.
On this day, various thematic events are held in political institutions around the world and in UN information centers. Debates, concerts of ethnic music are organized, screenings of the film "Unconquered", filmed about the life of Nelson Mandela, are held, as well as historical and photographic exhibitions dedicated to the South African president. In Johannensburg, where Mandela now lives, politicians and UN members from all over the world come to express their gratitude and wish him a happy birthday.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation, to which all UN members are joining today, calls on everyone on this day to devote 67 minutes of their time, one minute for each year of the former leader's social activities, people in need of help. For example, talking to lonely people, helping the poor or infirm, giving unused items to other people, and even helping animals. It is such actions that truly unite the people and contribute to peace on earth.
