Nelson Mandela International Day is observed every year on July 18 to celebrate Nelson Mandela, a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, the first black president of South Africa, and the man who is a symbol of power in the face of oppression.

He fought for equality across borders and worldly differences, and advocated the right of every living person to lead a life of dignity and freedom. As he once said, “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.”

He remains to be an inspiration and his teachings are still legendary for promoting love over hate and dignity over discrimination.