OAA Commemorates “Nelson Mandela Day” of Service
OAA encourages local and national community service on the 95th birthday of the former South African President.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, July 18, 2013
CONTACT: Winta
Teferi (EOM) 202.727.5634; winta.teferi@dc.gov
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – In the
spirit of the life and legacy of former South African president and anti-apartheid
trailblazer, Nelson Mandela, OAA encourages citywide volunteer service as a
part of annual ‘Mandela Day” on July 18th.
Since the inaugural
observance in 2008, Mandela Day organizers have advocated for people around the
world to give 67 minutes of their time to a community service project in honor of
the 67 years that Mandela spent in service to his fellow South Africans. Despite recent critical health issues, today
marks his 95th birthday.
“In honor of Nelson
Mandela’s commitment to service we hope to preserve his legacy by encouraging volunteerism
in the District on ‘Mandela Day’ 2013." said OAA Director, Ngozi Nmezi. “We urge District residents to participate
in the many exciting events and volunteer opportunities organized around the
city and the nation on July 18th.”
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In partnership with the
Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in Washington, DC and the Coalition of
Black Trade Unionists, TransAfrica is coordinating a Celebration of Nelson
Mandela’s 95th Birthday at Metropolitan A.M.E. Church [1518 M St. NW,
Washington, D.C.] The program will include Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, members
of the original anti-apartheid and Free South Africa Movement, special guests
and performances. The program will be held on July 18th, at 7pm, and
is open to the public. Event details.
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The Smithsonian National
Museum of African Art (NMAfA) will be celebrating Nelson Mandela Day on July 18
from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. with a live performance by Maria Broom and § Jali D in the Pavilion.
NMAfA curator Bryna Freyer will talk about the South African hands-on objects
and images available in the museum.
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To volunteer on ‘Mandela
Day’ or on proceeding days of service, sign-up through the Embassy of
the Republic of South Africa.
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