New York, NY (Top40 Charts/ The
Nelson Mandela Foundation) - 46664 and the
Nelson Mandela Foundation are calling on people around the world to support the creation of an official Mandela Day, to be held annually on July 18, Mr. Mandela's birthday. This celebration of
Nelson Mandela's life will serve as a global call to action for people to recognize their individual power to make an imprint and help change the world around them for the better.
A series of special events will take place in New York City in 2009 involving many of the charity's global ambassadors from the worlds of entertainment, music and film. An exhibition will take place in New York on Mr. Mandela's life and the work of his charitable organizations. Celebrities like Robert De Niro, Christy Turlington, and Morgan Freeman have also shown their commitment in a film. Everyone can get involved as viewers can edit themselves into the film alongside the celebrities of their choice to share with friends and family. More information can be found at www.MandelaDay.com.
This annual celebration is being created to inspire people from every corner of the earth to embrace Nelson Mandela's values as they seek to improve their lives through service to their communities.
"We would be honored if such a day can serve to bring together people around the world to fight poverty and promote peace and reconciliation," said Mr. Mandela.
Nelson Mandela has been making an imprint on the world for 67 years, beginning in 1942 when he first started to campaign for the human rights of every South African. His life has been an inspiration to the world. To date, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and 46664 have focused mainly on supporting projects in South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa where current needs are greatest, particularly for those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS.
The Mandela Day campaign calls upon people around the world to commit 67 minutes of their time to make an imprint and help change the world around them.
Tim Massey, International Director of 46664, said, "Mandela Day is about creating a movement for positive change and establishing one day to reflect upon, celebrate and make manifest the values that guide Nelson Mandela."
46664 will also be working with partner organizations, other city authorities and community associations and volunteers across the globe to create a worldwide series of Mandela Day events to honor Nelson Mandela's life and legacy.
For photos, footage and EPK visit www.MandelaDay.com.