Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield Honors Nelson Mandela International Day

July 18, 2024

New York, NY – Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield reflected on the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela, celebrating his resilience, his capacity to heal and unite, and his enduring inspiration to the world, in a heartfelt statement marking Nelson Mandela International Day.

“On this day, we reflect on Nelson Mandela’s extraordinary life and his resilience during his long imprisonment. His remarkable capacity to heal and unite a deeply divided nation is an inspiration,” said Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield.

As global challenges continue to threaten peace, freedom, justice, and equality, the Ambassador emphasized the importance of remembering and continuing Mandela’s vision. She highlighted the need to build bridges between divided communities and to foster sustainable and just peace in areas where it is under threat.

“Today, as the world grapples with threats to peace and freedom, justice and equality, we must all remember Mandela’s vision – and continue his work: building bridges between even the most starkly divided communities and fostering a sustainable and just peace, wherever it is under threat,” she stated.

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also praised the U.S. Government’s Mandela Washington Fellowship Program for Young African Leaders, which celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. The program has empowered nearly 6,500 young leaders across Sub-Saharan Africa, embodying Mandela’s spirit and determination in addressing global challenges.

“Among those carrying on Mandela’s legacy are the young people participating in the U.S. Government’s Mandela Washington Fellowship Program for Young African Leaders. This year marks a decade since the inception of this program, which has empowered nearly 6,500 future luminaries across Sub-Saharan Africa,” she noted.

In closing, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield expressed her inspiration from Mandela and those who emulate his spirit. She called for collective efforts to uphold Mandela’s vision of a freer, fairer world for all.

“Just as I am inspired by Nelson Mandela, I am galvanized by those emulating his spirit of compassion and determination in our efforts to address global challenges. Together, we can uphold Mandela’s vision of a freer, fairer world for all,” she concluded.