Nelson Mandela International Day

What Is Nelson Mandela International Day?

Every year on July 18, the world observes "Nelson Mandela International Day," marking the birthday (July 18, 1918) of Nelson Mandela, former president of South Africa and leader of the anti-apartheid movement. In November 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared the day in recognition of his "values and his dedication to the service of humanity" — particularly his contributions to peace and freedom. People around the world are encouraged to take action to make the world a little better, often through 67 minutes of community service.

Mandela's Journey

Mandela's life is a story of overcoming the wall of racial discrimination and building a nation through dialogue.

• Dedication to ending apartheid: Mandela opposed South Africa's system of racial segregation, known as apartheid, and spent 27 years in prison. After his release in 1990, he chose dialogue over retaliation, and in 1994 he became president following South Africa's first election open to all races.
• The meaning of "67 minutes": The number comes from the 67 years Mandela devoted to public service. On this day, people are invited to give 67 minutes of their time to others and to their communities.

Building a Nation Through Dialogue and Reconciliation

As president, Mandela emphasized dialogue and reconciliation to bring a divided country together.

• The Truth and Reconciliation Commission: Under Mandela's government, a Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established to uncover human rights violations of the apartheid era and promote reconciliation. It was chaired by Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
• The 1995 Rugby World Cup: When South Africa hosted the tournament, Mandela backed the national team — long seen as a symbol of white South Africa — and presented the trophy to its captain. The moment became a symbol of national unity and was later portrayed in the film "Invictus."

Fascinating Facts About Nelson Mandela

• "Invictus": In prison, Mandela is said to have drawn strength from William Ernest Henley's poem "Invictus," known for the lines "I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul."
• A shared Nobel Peace Prize: In 1993, Mandela was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with then-President F.W. de Klerk, recognizing their work toward the peaceful end of apartheid.
• "Sport has the power to change the world": One of Mandela's best-known sayings, reflecting his belief in sport's power to bring people together.
• The "Rainbow Nation": A phrase widely used in Mandela's era to describe the new South Africa, home to many ethnic groups and cultures.
• Long Walk to Freedom: The title of Mandela's autobiography, which has been translated into many languages, including Japanese.

Ideas for Spending Nelson Mandela International Day

• Dedicate 67 minutes to people around you or your community — tidying up around your workplace or joining a volunteer activity are good places to start.
• Read Mandela's words or autobiography, or watch the film "Invictus."
• Learn about the history of apartheid and about South Africa today.
• Take time to really listen to someone whose background or views differ from your own.

Sixty-Seven Minutes at a Time, Toward a Better World

July 18 isn't just about celebrating the birth of a great leader — it's a day to think about what each of us can do for others. After 27 years in prison, Mandela chose dialogue and reconciliation over revenge, and his example is still remembered around the world. Today, why not give a little of your time to someone else?