“To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” This famous Nelson Mandela quote is frequently cited by world leaders when advocating for international peace.
Nelson Mandela was one of the greatest men to ever live on Earth
Mandela’s forename was Rolihlahla, which in his tribe means “pulling the branch of a tree” or “troublemaker.” His teacher gave him the name ‘Nelson’ on his first day of elementary school.
The 18th of July is recognised as Nelson Mandela International Day to honour his role in negotiating the end of apartheid. In 1918, the first democratically elected black president of South Africa was born in Transkei, South Africa.
In November 2009, the United Nations declared July 18 to be Nelson Mandela International Day. The first celebration took place on July 18, 2010. In 2015, the UN General Assembly went a step further and broadened the scope of Nelson Mandela International Day. It shifted the focus of the day to include concerns involving prisons and prisoners.
In fact, the intergovernmental organisation even came up with the “Nelson Mandela Rules,” which set guidelines for how inmates should be treated. Because Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his anti-apartheid activism, these guidelines were named after him.
Mandela, a human rights attorney widely referred to as Madiba around the world, devoted his life to empowering people. Additionally, he fought for the universality of all human rights.
Mandela ruled over South Africa as its first black president from 1994 to 1999, playing the role of an international peace-maker. In 1993, he was honoured with the Nobel Peace Prize.
Mandela, also referred to as the “Gandhi of South Africa,” had a close relationship with India. He adhered passionately to Gandhi’s principles. He was decorated with more than 250 awards. In fact, India awarded him the Bharat Ratna, its highest civilian honour, when he was released from prison. In addition, the Indian government honoured him with the International Gandhi Peace Prize in 2001 for his efforts to promote peace.
Mandela was a firm believer in inspiring everyone to take responsibility for making the world a better place. Mandela Day is a day for everyone to get involved and inspire change.