You Can Change A Life In 67 Minutes

In 1994 Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was released from prison. I was young, but I remember the excitement and celebration that reverberated around the globe. It felt like time stood still as the warmth of hope and unity flowed across the country and the region.

Mandela was not perfect, by any means, but his commitment to advocating for justice, equity and peace was unparalleled. Madiba, as he was affectionately nicknamed, worked tirelessly in the service of others, and became a visionary champion and great humanitarian. His most impactful legacy was built on his choice to forgive those who had tortured and imprisoned him for over twenty-seven years and becoming the first democratically elected black president of South Africa.

Over the years Mandela fought against the effects of poverty in local and international communities, brought awareness to HIV/AIDS, worked alongside women towards women’s empowerment and passionately took up the cause of children’s education.

When he was elected president of South Africa, Mandela, led with compassion and grace, a feat worthy of respect, at a time when he could have chosen to focus on how he was discriminated against. There are many quotes from Nelson Mandela used today.

To commemorate his life and dedication to healing communities and building relationships among diverse cultural communities, CMCCF is continuing its mission founded in justice, equity, diversity and inclusion focused on the future of cultural communities.

We ask you to reflect on what you can do to bring diverse peoples together. Madiba may be gone, but his legacy can live on in our actions. Honour his 67 years of public service by spending 67 minutes focusing on the goal that was so dear to him: Equity For All.

Perhaps you spend 67 minutes all at once on a project, or perhaps you break it up into multiple pieces. However you do it, the intention is to make a positive difference in someone’s life.

Here are a couple things you can do:

• Learn from someone of a different culture/background and reflect on the positive values they possess.
• Volunteer with organizations that support diverse cultural communities.
• Work to end the stigmas that marginalized people face by becoming a positive ally.
• Welcome new neighbours into your community.
• Engage in and promote events that help to build healthy relationships and families.

Together we can change someone’s life. What is your commitment today?