Every year, 18 July is celebrated as Nelson Mandela International Day or Mandela Day. The day offer tributes Nelson Mandela a South African revolutionary and political leader who is known for leading the transition from apartheid to a multiracial democracy.
July 18 was chosen as Mandela Day by the United Nations in honor of his birthday. The first UN Nelson Mandela International Day was observed in the year 2010.
Nelson Mandela International Day Theme
A theme is decided every year to celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day. “One Hand Can Feed Another” was the theme for 2021 celebration. The theme for Nelson Mandela International Day 2022 was “Do what you can, with what you have, wherever you are.”
Nelson Mandela International Day 2023 theme is “The Legacy Lives on Through You: Climate, Food and Solidarity”.
Nelson Mandela International Day 2024 theme is Combat poverty and inequality is in our hands. We have prepared the table for theme of this special day from 2015 to 2024
| Nelson Mandela International Day 20024 Theme | “Combat poverty and inequality is in our hands” |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2023 Theme | “The Legacy Lives on Through You: Climate, Food and Solidarity |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2022 Theme | “Do what you can, with what you have, wherever you are” |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2021 Theme | “One Hand Can Feed Another” |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2020 Theme | “Take Action – Inspire Change – Make Every Day a Mandela Day” |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2019 Theme | “Action Against Poverty” |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2018 Theme | “Be the Legacy” |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2017 Theme | “Action Against Gender-Based Violence” |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2016 Theme | “Education and Literacy” |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2015 Theme | “Freedom, Justice, Democracy” |
Nelson Mandela International Day 2024 Date
Below mentioned are the upcoming dates for Nelson Mandela International Day for the next 5 years.
| Event | Date | Day |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2024 | July 18, 2024 | Thursday |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2025 | July 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2026 | July 18, 2026 | Saturday |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2027 | July 18, 2027 | Sunday |
| Nelson Mandela International Day 2028 | July 18, 2028 | Tuesday |
Overview
| Event Name | Nelson Mandela International Day 2024 |
| Date | July 18 |
| Day | Thursday |
| Declared by | United Nations |
| Purpose | To celebrate the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world |
Significance of Nelson Mandela International Day
“To shine light on the legacy of a man who changed the 20th century and helped shape the 21st”, Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated every year.
The day focuses on renewing the values by which Mandela was inspired, determination, commitment to justice, human rights and fundamental freedoms, belief in the equality and dignity of every woman and man and engagement for dialogue and solidarity across all lines and divisions.
Nelson Mandela International Day History
A resolution was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 November, 2009 to observe 18 July as Nelson Mandela International Day to honor all the hard work and sacrifice he made for betterment of people and achievement of peace.
Although, the first Mandela Day was launched was some groups on 18 July 2009, the first Nelson Mandela International Day as observed by UN was celebrated in the year 2010.
Celebration
There is a very simple way to celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day. By walking on the path shown by him you can work towards promotion of human rights, international democracy, and reconciliation. One must always respect others freedom and diversity and share the thoughts left behind by Mandela. Many organizations and individuals conduct activities in support of other people.
You can either conduct such activities or be a part of one. Volunteering in local organizations, working in soup kitchens and similar other small tasks can make huge difference, so take part in such actions.
Famous Quotes by Nelson Mandela
Here are some quotes by Nelson Mandela that inspires everyone to become helpful to others:
“Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”
“Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people.”
“Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”
“For 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.”
“Live life as though nobody is watching, and express yourself as though everyone is listening.”
“A good head and good heart are always a formidable combination. But when you add to that a literate tongue or pen, then you have something very special.”
Man’s goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished.”
“I have never cared very much for personal prizes. A person does not become a freedom fighter in the hope of winning awards.”
“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”
“A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of.”
Other International Days in July
FAQs
There is no official holiday on Mandela Day and the day is a tribute to Mandela and his values.
In 2014, the UN General Assembly announced the Nelson Mandela Prize, a quinquennial award to recognize those who dedicated their lives to the service of humanity.
In reference to Nelson Mandela’s Robben Island prison number a campaign known as “46664” was launched to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.
It is yet to be announced.
