By The Associated Press
In nearly seven decades spent fighting for freedom and equality, Nelson Mandela inspired and challenged the world to stand up for others. As word of Mandela’s death spread, current and former presidents, athletes and entertainers, and people around the world spoke about the life and legacy of the former South African leader.
From Harlem to Hollywood, Paris to Beijing, people hailed Mandela’s indomitable courage in the face of adversity as an inspiration for all. In a testament to his universal appeal, political leaders of various stripes joined critics and activists in paying tribute to Mandela as a heroic force for peace and reconciliation.
Some knew Mandela personally while many only knew him from afar, but they shared how they drew inspiration from his strength and looked to live his message of continuing the struggle against social injustice and for human rights.
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“He no longer belongs to us. He belongs to the ages,” said President Barack Obama, who shares with Mandela the distinction of being his nation’s first Black president.
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Former U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan said the world had lost “a visionary leader, a courageous voice for justice and a clear moral compass.” Both Annan and Archbishop Desmond Tutu were part of Mandela’s group of statesmen known as The Elders.
“God was so good to us in South Africa by giving us Nelson Mandela to be our president at a crucial moment in our history,” Tutu said. “He inspired us to walk the path of forgiveness and reconciliation and so South Africa did not go up in flames.”
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President Xi Jinping of China, which supported apartheid’s opponents throughout the Cold War, praised Mandela’s victory in the anti-apartheid struggle and his contribution to “the cause of human progress.”
For Chinese rights activists, Mandela’s death served as a reminder that one of their own symbols of freedom, Nobel Peace prize laureate Liu Xiaobo, remained imprisoned by Chinese authorities. “This moment magnifies how evil the current regime is,” Beijing activist Hu Jia said.
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” As we remember his triumphs, let us, in his memory, not just reflect on how far we’ve come, but on how far we have to go,” said the U.S. actor Morgan Freeman, who portrayed Mandela in the 2009 film, “Invictus.”
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Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, whose efforts to open up his country helped lead to the end of the Cold War, said Mandela “told me several times that our perestroika in the USSR had helped his country a lot to get rid of apartheid.”
“He did a lot for humankind, and memory of him will live not only in his country, but across the world,” Gorbachev said in comments carried by the Interfax news agency.
In Kiev, where Ukrainians have gathered for anti-government demonstrations around-the-clock for the past week, protesters took a moment to recall Mandela’s legacy.
“He had many troubles in his life. He was in prison, but he was waiting and he achieved what he wanted,” protester Alena Pivovar said. “We have the same situation now. We have some barriers, but we have to pass them.”
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“Nelson Mandela set the standard for all revolutionaries past, present, and future: have a righteous cause, fight with dignity, and win with grace,” said actor and E Street band guitarist Steven Van Zandt, who in 1985 recruited performers to record “Sun City,” an anti-apartheid album.
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The United Nation’s top human rights official, Navi Pillay — a South African who was once a defense lawyer for anti-apartheid activists — said Mandela “was perhaps the greatest moral leader of our time.”
Pillay recalled how Mandela’s release from prison triggered a “thirst for revenge” among his supporters but that he emphasized forgiveness over vengeance. “He told us to throw our spears and guns into the sea,” Pillay said. “He showed us that a better future depended on reconciliation, not revenge.”
In Haiti, a Caribbean nation that became the world’s first Black republic in 1804 through a successful slave revolt, Mandela symbolized the struggle for Black equality.
“Mandela is not only the father of democracy in South Africa, but is also a symbol of democracy,” said Haitian President Michel Martelly. “And like any symbol, he is not dead. He is present in all of us and guides us by his lifestyle, his courage and faith in the true struggle for equality.”
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The Norwegian Nobel Committee, which awarded the 1993 peace prize to Mandela and F.W. de Klerk, called Mandela “one of the greatest names in the long history of the Nobel Peace Prize.”
“His work presents a message also today to all those who bear responsibility for apparently unresolvable conflicts: Even the most bitter of conflicts can be solved by peaceful means,” the committee said.
Myanmar pro-democracy leader and fellow Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi hailed a “great human being who raised the standard of humanity … He also made us understand that we can change the world.”
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Spiritual leaders joined the homage.
In New Delhi, the Dalai Lama urged believers to “develop determination and … enthusiasm to carry his spirit.”
From the Vatican, Pope Francis paid ” tribute to the steadfast commitment shown by Nelson Mandela in promoting the human dignity of all the nation’s citizens and in forging a new South Africa built on the firm foundations of non-violence, reconciliation and truth.”
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In New York City’s Harlem neighborhood, artist Franco Gaskin, 85, stood before a mural featuring Mandela he had painted on a storefront gate almost 20 years ago. He remembered a Mandela visit there in 1990. “It was dynamic, everyone was so electrified to see him in Harlem,” Gaskin said. “I idolized him so much. He leaves a legacy that all of us should follow.”
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India’s Prime Minister Manmohan Singh compared Mandela to his country’s own icon for the struggle for freedom, independence leader Mohandas K. Gandhi.
“A giant among men has passed away. This is as much India’s loss as South Africa’s. He was a true Gandhian. His life and work will remain a source of eternal inspiration for generations to come.”
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Israeli President Shimon Peres said Mandela was a “builder of bridges of peace and dialogue” who changed the course of history, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised his moral leadership.
“He was never haughty,” Netanyahu said. “He worked to heal rifts within South African society and succeeded in preventing outbreaks of racial hatred.”
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At the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Ky., on display is a photograph of the U.S. boxing great with Mandela, their hands clenched into fists as if they’re boxing.
“He made us realize, we are our brother’s keeper and that our brothers come in all colors,” Ali said. “He was a man whose heart, soul and spirit could not be contained or restrained by racial and economic injustices, metal bars or the burden of hate and revenge.
Responses from Nelson Mandela’s Passing
Statement by Bernice A. King on the Death of Nelson Mandela
Bernice A. King, chief executive officer of the King Center today issued the following statement on the death of President Nelson Mandela:
“I join with people of all races worldwide in mourning the death of this great lion of African liberation, but celebrating his magnificent life of service to the cause of freedom, human rights and justice for all humanity. Nelson Mandela’s life and leadership exemplified the highest courage, dignity and dedication to human liberation. His name will always resonate in my heart, as it does in the hearts of millions of people all over the world. His death marks the end of an era, when leaders of unsurpassed courage and integrity walked among us.”
Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on the Passing of Nelson Mandela
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela:
“While today we mourn the loss of one of history’s most valuable freedom fighters, Nelson Mandela’s legacy as a universal symbol of hope, justice and courage will inspire generations to come. As a direct benefactor of the Civil Rights Movement in my home state of Alabama, I reflect upon the tremendous contributions Nelson Mandela has made to civil rights movements across the world. The lessons which came from America’s civil rights movement and those from Mandela’s fight to end apartheid in South Africa are inextricably linked.
Nelson Mandela’s legacy is one that reflects a courageous struggle for freedom that not only changed South Africa, but the entire world. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, we must honor his legacy by never taking for granted the benefits that come from the freedom he and so many others fought for. May the life of Nelson Mandela serve as a constant reminder that we must never deviate from our dedication to equality in our communities, schools, and institutions.”
Gwen Moore Mourns Nelson Mandela
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) released this statement after learning that Nelson Mandela had passed.
“Today we have lost a visionary leader and hero for human rights. Nelson Mandela broke the chains of oppression in South Africa and opened the hearts and minds of millions. His life’s journey serves as an inspiration to all those who strive to create a more just world. He reaffirmed to all that hope and a steadfast dream of freedom will prevail over hatred and fear.
“His courage and strength freed a nation and reshaped our history. In 2005, I had the honor and blessing of meeting this remarkable man. It was a powerful moment that left an indelible mark.
“Though no words can wholly console those who mourn, my thoughts and prayers go out to every person touched by his kind spirit and resolve. May his legacy live on today and always.”
CBC Chair Marcia Fudge’s Statement on Passing of Former President Nelson Mandela
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Marcia L. Fudge released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela:
“Today, Members of the Congressional Black Caucus mourn the loss of our friend and one of the greatest world leaders of our time. Nelson “Rolihlahla” Mandela was an extraordinary human being; a man who dedicated his entire life to the liberation of all South Africans and who united voices for freedom in every corner of the world.
“With incomparable courage, President Mandela overcame violent persecution for his belief that every individual deserved to live in a society where injustice would not be tolerated. Through his work and sacrifices, President Mandela taught us that we are greater together than the prejudices that divide us, and that the fight for peace, equality and justice can be won.
“From the halls of Congress to the communities they represent, Members of the CBC heeded President Mandela’s call to take all necessary action to force an end to apartheid and the atrocities experienced by so many of South Africa’s people. His vision for justice in South Africa reflected the vision Members of the CBC had for America, and his story empowered African Americans and people of all races to stand up for justice on behalf of our brothers and sisters worldwide.
“Though today we grieve President Mandela’s death, the world will celebrate his life. This world will be forever changed because he lived. May we never forget the lessons Madiba taught us in his quest for freedom, ‘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.”
SPLC Founder Morris Dees Remembers Human Rights Icon Nelson Mandela
The below was issued today by Morris Dees, founder and chief trial attorney of the Southern Poverty Law Center:
“President Nelson Mandela’s death leaves human rights advocates across the world with an undeniable sense of loss. But amid the sorrow, we can take solace from the former South African president’s legacy.
Here at the SPLC, we think about Mandela often. At the Civil Rights Memorial Center that we built in Montgomery, Alabama, he is recognized as a leader of the contemporary struggle for human and civil rights.
Every year, thousands of schoolchildren visit the Center and learn about the universal nature of the struggle for civil rights. They learn about Mandela and how the U.S. civil rights movement influenced the fight against apartheid in South Africa. In fact, on Mandela’s first visit to our country he insisted on meeting Rosa Parks.
Mandela’s courage during his 27 years of imprisonment will forever inspire people to stand up to oppression and injustice. And the more we can learn from his life, the more we can amplify the drumbeat for human rights.
Mandela may be known for dismantling apartheid in South Africa following his release from prison, but the commitment to justice and equality he demonstrated after becoming South Africa’s first Black president in 1994 provides a powerful lesson for all human rights activists.
He worked to fulfill the statement he made during the trial that ultimately led to his imprisonment: “I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society, in which all persons will live together in harmony and with equal opportunities.”
Mandela recognized that South Africa’s future depended on the country moving forward – together. Dismantling apartheid was only the first step, not the destination. Mandela understood that resentment, suspicion and fear undercut human rights advances. Empathy, reconciliation and tolerance are necessary to chart the course forward.
The Civil Rights Memorial Center not only honors Mandela and the martyrs of the U.S. civil rights movement but teaches that the movement isn’t just a period in time – it’s a continuum. The march for civil and human rights continues across the world.
When the Civil Rights Memorial was built in 1989, we refused to use South African black granite because we would not support apartheid. But when the South African ambassador spoke at the Memorial in 2011, he spoke of Mandela and the tremendous transformation he helped bring about.
As we honor Mandela today, we must remember that the transformation is not complete, and we must recognize our future is a shared one, one that’s brighter when we’re united. It’s a belief President Mandela understood. It’s a belief we must take to heart.
The march continues.”
NAACP Statement on Nelson Mandela’s Passing
BALTIMORE, Md. – The NAACP released the following statements following the death of Nelson Mandela:
Roslyn Brock, Chairman of the NAACP Board of Directors:
“The Honorable Nelson Mandela embodied the hopes, dreams, aspirations and values of all who seek justice against tremendous odds. He responded to unfathomable violence with peace and courage, and in doing so he forever changed the world.”
Dr. David Emmanuel Goatley, Chairman of the International Affairs Committee of the NAACP Board of Directors:
“Nelson Mandela’s legacy remains an inspiration for the work of the NAACP. In Mandela’s name we must continue to bring attention to all aspects of global apartheid characterized by poverty, inequality, discrimination, and prejudice of all kind.”
Bill Lucy, member of the NAACP National Board of Directors and labor leader:
“The world has lost one of the great statesmen of our time – a man who spent 27 years in prison because he believed in the cause of equality. His loss should set an example for political leaders still here, that there is a need to lead and govern in a manner that is equitable to all people.”
Lorraine Miller, Interim NAACP President and CEO:
“President Mandela was humanity’s greatest living hero. His unwavering sense of justice and peace transformed a nation and inspired the world.”
Beatty Statement on the Passing of Nelson Mandela
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela:
“Nelson Mandela is a testament of what one individual can achieve through planning, perseverance, and protest. Through his guidance, he led the campaign to defeat the apartheid through non-violence, peace, and dialogue.”
“I had the opportunity to visit South Africa and Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. I found the experience both moving and humbling to see firsthand what he endured to set his people free, reshaping the fate of a nation.”
“President Nelson Mandela is the father of his nation. He gave up so much to rid his country of injustice and may his sacrifice and endeavors stand the test of time.
We Remember, Honor, and Celebrate the Extraordinary Life & Legacy of Nelson Mandela
National Urban League
“During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.” – Nelson Mandela
There are few men or women who leave such an indelible imprint and impact on the world that they are remembered, honored and celebrated by nations near and far for centuries after they depart. There are few people for whom even all the words in every language fail to convey the magnitude and meaning of their lives. Without a doubt in mind or heart, I know that Nelson Mandela is one among a very select few.
His dedication, perseverance, forgiveness, and purpose – his life – sparked an inextinguishable fire in the souls of freedom fighters not only in South Africa, but everywhere. The light that he shared will forever serve as an international beacon for fairness, justice and hope for all disadvantaged, impoverished and oppressed people from every corner of the world.
Nelson Mandela gave new meaning to the word “inspiration.” After spending 27 years of a life sentence as an apartheid regime political prisoner, he emerged, not with bitterness – but instead with a steadfast resolve to complete his life’s work. His remarkable journey serves as an indisputable example of forgiveness in the face of persecution and triumph through tribulation.
I consider myself at once fortunate, humbled and proud to have been a part of the great work of Nelson Mandela’s life during the 1980s here in the United States. While attending Georgetown University Law Center in 1981, I co-led an effort to boycott the cafeteria operator because of its investments in South Africa. During this same period, I was a member of the leadership team of the National Black Law Students Association that pushed for divestment of South African investments by U.S. companies. Early in my career, I was arrested at the South African Embassy as part of a mass, peaceful organized protest led by Walter Fauntroy, Mary Frances Berry and Randall Robinson in support of U.S. economic sanctions against South Africa.
As co-leader of the New Orleans Anti-Apartheid Coalition, I helped to successfully advocate for the New Orleans Public Employee Pension Board’s divestment in U.S. companies who had holdings in South Africa. When the U.S. Congress ultimately passed sanctions against South Africa, I could only hope that Nelson Mandela knew that his army now extended beyond the borders of South Africa to subsequent generations of freedom activists and advocates around the world – even in the world’s greatest democracy – helping to continue the work he started.
After the election of President Mandela, as mayor of New Orleans I signed an economic and friendship agreement in 1994 between Johannesburg and New Orleans, one of the first U.S. cities to do so. It was an indescribable honor. Nelson Mandela’s efforts to create a new, multi-racial democracy weren’t just an example of unwavering leadership, humanity and compassion for me, but also for the countless millions who will follow and study him as one of the world’s great leaders for centuries to come.
I often wonder if his parents knew when they named him Rolihlahla (common translation: “troublemaker”) how prophetic that was or how ironic it would be that he would grow up to be an international symbol of peacemaking. But the “troublemaking” that Nelson Mandela undertook was of a different kind. It was the kind that sees legislated injustice, race-based inequality and economic despair and seeks to disrupt an institutionalized system of oppression and discrimination. It is the kind that motivates all of us in the Urban League Movement to continue to fight for opportunity parity and economic equality every day in hundreds of communities across America.
Nelson Mandela gave a voice to those who had been silenced. He brought hope to those who had been stripped of their dreams. He awakened a nation – and ultimately a world – to the boundless possibilities of following one’s purpose.
Today, we stand with the people of South Africa and with the international community in mourning the loss of Nelson Mandela. We remember, honor, and celebrate his extraordinary life and legacy. The world could use a few more “Rolihlahlas.”
”Our march to freedom is irreversible. We must not allow fear to stand in our way.”
– Nelson Mandela
Nation’s Largest Youth Political Organization Statement on Mandela’s Passing
The Young Democrats of America released the following statement after learning of President Nelson Mandela’s death.
“Today, the Young Democrats of America pause to remember a leader whose message of freedom and equality transcends race, age or national borders,” said Atima Omara, president of the Young Democrats of America. “We are greatly saddened by his passing but he lived a tremendous life to the benefit of others and to the great sacrifice of himself. But he continued to fight with the belief that a nation stands at its greatest height when it stands for equality, fairness, justice and opportunity for all.”
Omara is a first generation African immigrant and the first African American president of the Young Democrats of America.
“Mandela began his political activism as a young man and stands as an example for all that one person, regardless of age or status can do to change the arc of history,” added Omara.
James Lewis
Issue Advocacy Director
The Young Democrats of America
jlewis@yda.org
