Bridge the Gap with Neil Diamond: Nelson Mandela month
We recently commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Freedom Charter and, seeing that I did not have much exposure to this Charter, as it never formed part of my education, it was such a profound experience when I learnt about it for the first time.
What impressed me the most, is the opening line of the Freedom Charter which declares: “South Africa belongs to all who live in, black and white.” This was relevant on June 26, 1955, and is even more so today. I regularly hear people say they feel marginalised or unwelcome. We should all take ownership of the Freedom Charter and remind each other as often as we can that no group enjoys greater ownership of our land than any other.
South Africa belongs to all of us and as a collective, black and white, we need to build a better future for our children. As we end Youth Month, we start July and this is the month that we, as a country, annually celebrate the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela.
On the celebration of Madiba’s birthday on July 18, Ekurhuleni will join the world in paying tribute to Nelson Mandela by giving 67 minutes of our time to improve the lives of others. It is such a privilege to honour a man who exemplifies the best qualities attainable by humanity.
Nelson Mandela was South Africa’s most beloved son and the father of our nation. He was respected, admired, loved by people across the world as a moral compass and role model for what every human should aspire for. He was a global statesman who rose above hate and vengeance to embrace peace and reconciliation; a man whose courage, wisdom, visionary leadership and almost unhuman–like capacity to forgive continue to inspire people in both South Africa and the whole world.
Nelson Mandela has redefined the concept of leadership. He has proved through his own example that faith, hope and charity are qualities not beyond the attainment by humanity. Because of him, the world is a better place. Because of him, the world is working to be a kinder place. I urge every resident and community member to take their 67 minutes on Mandela day to improve the life of the community of Ekurhuleni. Let us make every day a Madiba day and create a better life for all.
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Read more Neil Diamond here:
Bridge the Gap: Youth Economic Freedom
Bridge the Gap with Neil Diamond: Illegal Water Connections
