The day was officially declared by the
United Nations in November 2009, with the first UN Mandela Day held on 18 July 2010. However, other groups began celebrating Mandela Day on 18 July 2009. On 27 April 2009, the
46664 concerts and the
Nelson Mandela Foundation invited the
global community to join them in support of an official Mandela Day. Mandela Day is not meant as a
public holiday, but as a day to honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa's former president, and his values, through
volunteering and
community service. Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to
transform the world, the ability to make an impact. The Mandela Day campaign message is: : "Nelson Mandela has fought for
social justice for 67 years. We're asking you to start with 67 minutes." :"We would be honoured if such a day can serve to bring people together around the world to
fight poverty and promote
peace,
reconciliation and
cultural diversity," according to a statement issued on Mandela's behalf. To mark the first global celebration of Mandela Day on 18 July 2009, Mandela's 91st birthday, a series of educational, art exhibit, fund-raising and volunteer events leading up to a concert at
Radio City Music Hall on 18 July were organised by the 46664 concerts and the Nelson Mandela Foundation. ==Mandela Prize==