New York – To mark the second annual Nelson Mandela International Day, the United Nations is encouraging people around the globe to perform 67 minutes of public service – one minute for every year of the South African leader’s own service to humanity.<\/p>\n
The call is part of the “Take Action! Inspire Change” campaign by the Mandela Foundation in recognition of the contributions made by Mandela, as a human rights lawyer, freedom fighter, prisoner of conscience, international peacemaker, and the first democratically-elected president of a free South Africa.<\/p>\n
“Together, the best way we can thank Nelson Mandela for his work is by taking action for others and inspiring change,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in a message for the Day.<\/p>\n
In November 2009, the UN General Assembly declared 18 July – Mandela’s birthday – Nelson Mandela International Day in recognition of the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom.<\/p>\n
In a separate video message, Ban called on people everywhere to embrace Mandela’s message to change the world and make it a better place.<\/p>\n
“Tutor a child. Feed someone less fortunate. Care for your environment. Volunteer at a hospital or community centre. Be a part of a global movement to make the world a better place.<\/p>\n
“Together, we can help people achieve the dignity and liberty that is their birthright. That is the best way we can honour Nelson Mandela,” he said.<\/p>\n
To mark Mandela’s 93rd birthday today, senior officials, diplomats and staff from the UN will gather in New York’s Central Park to perform public service.<\/p>\n
Also in New York, an interactive exhibit called “Take Action! Inspire Change” will be displayed at UN Headquarters, where visitors can learn about Mandela through a range of video and audio materials, as well as make their pledge to “67 minutes of service” in a message that will be sent to Mandela himself.<\/p>\n
Other UN offices around the world will also mark the Day by undertaking activities in their local communities. – BuaNews <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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