Today is “Nelson Mandela International Day”! This day was declared by the U.N. in honor of the South African leader’s birthday, he is 93 today! He received birthday wishes from many different leaders, such as President Jacob Zuma of South Africa and United States President Barack Obama. In a recent statement, Obama calls Mandela, “a beacon for the global community, and for all who work for democracy, justice, and reconciliation”.
He became South Africa’s first black president after spending 27 years in prison for his fight against apartheid, and was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts.
Mandela is spending the day with his family in his home village of Qunu about 600 miles south of Johannesburg.
Established in 2009, Mandela’s birthday was declared as an international day dedicated to public service. It’s been asked for people to give 67 minutes of time to their local community. The 67 minutes mark the 67 years of Mandela’s public service.
