Ambassador Chris Lu, U.S. Representative for UN Management and Reform, delivered a speech at the annual observance of Nelson Mandela International Day in New York City on July 15, 2024.
The event commemorated the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela, highlighting his profound impact on global issues of human rights, equality, and social justice.
Lu began by reflecting on Mandela’s historic address to the United Nations General Assembly thirty years ago, emphasizing Mandela’s vision of a world interconnected by a shared destiny.
Quoting Mandela, Lu said the struggle against apartheid was not merely an act of charity but a reaffirmation of humanity’s common bonds.
President Biden’s admiration for Mandela as “the most remarkable man I met in my whole career” set the tone for Lu’s call to action. He urged global leaders to renew their commitment to Mandela’s ideals of compassion, equality, and reconciliation in tackling contemporary challenges such as poverty, climate change, and technological threats.
Despite acknowledging the persistence of global inequalities stemming from colonialism and other historical injustices, Lu drew inspiration from Mandela’s resilience during his 27-year imprisonment.
He emphasized Mandela’s belief in a brighter future and his advocacy for forgiveness and empathy in the face of adversity.
Highlighting initiatives like the Mandela Washington Fellowship, which has empowered thousands of young African leaders, Lu celebrated the Fellows’ efforts in advancing social justice and sustainability across the continent. Examples included advocacy for disability rights in The Gambia, peace-building in Somalia, food security in Lesotho, and LGBTQ+ rights in South Africa.
Lu concluded with a call to action, urging the international community to support and empower young leaders who embody Mandela’s spirit of courage and conviction.
He emphasized the collective responsibility to combat bigotry and uphold universal dignity, echoing Mandela’s belief in the transformative power of leadership measured by its impact on future generations.
