INTERNATIONAL MANDELA DAY

International Mandela Day is an annual international day in honour of Nelson Mandela. This day is celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela’s birthday. The day was officially declared as “Mandela Day” by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first UN Mandela Day being held on 18 July 2010.

In April 2009, the 46664 concerts and the Nelson Mandela Foundation invited the global community to join them in support of an official Mandela Day. Mandela Day is a day which is dedicated in tribute of the legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s former president, and his values, by means of volunteering and community service. This day is therefore, not meant as a public holiday.

Mandela Day is a global call to action that drives the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make a change in the world.

The Mandela Day campaign message is:

“Nelson Mandela has fought for social justice for 67 years. We’re asking you to start with 67 minutes.”

According to a statement issued on his behalf, Mandela had the following to say about Mandela Day: “We would be honoured if such a day can serve to bring together people around the world to fight poverty and promote peace, reconciliation and cultural diversity“.

For 67 years, Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humankind – as a Human Rights Attorney, a prisoner of conscience, an international peacemaker and as the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa.

Schnetler’s will be taking part in Mandela Day as a firm. We believe that in order for South Africa to be a better country for every citizen, it starts with us, with the people of South Africa. Every citizen of South Africa needs to come together in order to fight for a better future for all.

Dedicate 67 minutes of your day on 18 July 2016 to the betterment of your society. It doesn’t have to cost you anything, except for your time.

Compiled by:  Laura Ames

This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your legal adviser for specific and detailed advice.  Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)