Mandela Day 2023

Tennessee United for Human Rights marked the 105th birthday of Nelson Mandela with an educational event for youth.

Nelson Mandela Day is celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela’s birthday. The day was officially declared by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first UN Mandela Day held on 18 July 2010. 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 Mandela’s behalf on the adoption of his day by the United Nations, his hope was that it would “bring together people around the world to fight poverty and promote peace, reconciliation and cultural diversity.”

Nelson Mandela once said, “It is easy to break down and destroy. The heroes are those who make peace and build,” and according to representatives of Tennessee United for Human Rights, “In observance of Mandela Day and recognition of Nelson Mandela, Tennessee United for Human Rights (TnUHR) introduced a new generation to the importance and relevance of Mr. Mandela’s work.”

Event organizers showed youth who Nelson Mandela was, what he was known for, when the critical events of his life happened, and how we can build on his legacy. Participants then celebrated Mr. Mandela, South Africa and human rights with works of art.