Nelson Mandela
From http://www.46664.com
Non-aligned Movement Heads of State and Government Special Declaration on Nelson Mandela International Day – July 18
NAM leaders endorse Mandela Day
17/07/2009
Senior officials from more than 100 states of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) concluded the 15th NAM summit on July 16 in Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh. Among the approved documents was a special declaration issued by NAM leaders that endorsed the upcoming Nelson Mandela International Day.
“The Heads of State and Government recognized the long history of Nelson Mandela’s leading role in and support for Africa’s struggle for liberation, self-determination and Africa’s unity and also his outstanding contribution in the creation of a non-racial, non-sexist, and democratic South Africa,” the declaration said.
Leaders of NAM member states specially recognized Mandela’s achievements as South Africa’s first democratically elected president, as recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and his establishing the Nelson Mandela Foundation, among others.
“The Heads of State and Government further recognized Mr Mandela’s values and his dedication to the service of humanity as a humanitarian, in the fields of conflict resolution, race relations, promotion and protection of human rights, reconciliation, gender equality, rights of children and other vulnerable groups as well as the upliftment of poor and underdeveloped communities,” the declaration said.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation and its sister organizations have called for Mandela’s birthday of July 18 to be more widely recognized as the Nelson Mandela International Day in celebration of Mandela’s legendary life and rich legacy in promoting democracy and humanity.
“The Heads of State and Government expressed their support for and solidarity with the Nelson Mandela Day International Campaign and called on Non-aligned Movement member states and peoples to join in the campaign, including by contributing 67 minutes of their time in service of their communities in recognition of Mandela’s 67 years contribution in service of community,” the declaration said.
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Celebrations are being held worldwide including The Mandela Day – a 46664 Celebration will be held at Radio City Music Hall, in NYC.
Performers for this event include:
The Soweto Gospel Choir, Angelique Kidjo, Baaba Maal, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Emmanuel Jal, Loyiso, Sipho Mabuse, Vusi Mahlasela, Thandiswa Mazawi, Susanna Owiyo, Dave Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Alicia Keys, Wyclef Jean, Queen Latifah, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, Josh Groban, TLC, Cyndi Lauper, Jesse McCartney, Chris Chameleon, Freshly Ground, and many more.
This a seriously distinguished group of artists and the concert itself is breaking new cultural ground because I don’t think there have ever been so many Continental African musicians performing in the same concert in the United States.
For those unable to attend (like me) concert there will be a free webcast of the show on www.livestream.com/mandeladaytv.
It’s about time that we had a truly international holiday and what better way to spend July 18th than by honoring this global African statesman, esteemed elder and profile in courage.
Filed under: Statesmen/women, Angelique Kidjo, Emmanuel Jal, Nelson Mandela, The Soweto Gospel Choir
