Today, the world commemorates Nelson Mandela Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2009. The day honors the late anti-apartheid activist who later served as an advocate of democracy and social justice, as well as South Africa’s first president from 1994 to 1999.
Though his critical opinions of the West often earned him scrutiny within the international community, his role as a spokesperson for equality, democracy, and social justice remains unchallenged nine years after his death. Mandela’s indefatigable commitment to equality and human rights continue to inspire human rights activists throughout the world.
To honor his legacy, the Nelson Mandela Foundation asks us to, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are” to build a sustainable world with freedom and prosperity for all. What will you do today to create a better world?
#MandelaDay2022
—Rabbi Josh Knobel