Nelson Mandela (African National Congress President) – Nelson Mandela Addresses U.S. Congress (Jun 1990)
Chapters
00:02:39 Nelson Mandela's Address to the United States Congress
Introduction: Nelson Mandela, Deputy President of the African National Congress, addressed the U.S. Congress.
Reflections on Mortality: Mandela emphasized the fleeting nature of human existence, comparing it to a meteor’s brief passage through time and space.
The Importance of Resilience: Despite the inevitability of death, Mandela stressed the significance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Overcoming Obstacles: Mandela highlighted the challenges faced by his fellow South Africans, including poverty, inequality, and racial discrimination.
Unity and Reconciliation: Mandela emphasized the need for unity and reconciliation among all South Africans, regardless of race or background.
Building a New South Africa: Mandela envisioned a new South Africa, free from the legacy of apartheid and characterized by equality, justice, and peace.
Conclusion: Mandela expressed gratitude for the support of the U.S. Congress and looked forward to continued collaboration.
00:04:53 South African People's Desire for Democracy
Key Points: Nelson Mandela begins his speech by quoting Shakespeare’s play “The Two Gentlemen of Verona,” highlighting the transient nature of life and the enduring spirit of the people. He emphasizes that he and his delegation come to Washington not as pretenders to greatness but as representatives of a noble and heroic people. Mandela expresses their joy and expectation in reaffirming and enlarging their humanity through open communication with the nations of the world. He conveys the purpose of their visit: to share the troubles, trials, hopes, and aspirations of their people and to give them an opportunity to express their desires and aspirations for their relationship with the United States. Mandela makes a powerful statement about the demand for democracy in their country, emphasizing the need for an end to the suffering and pain that their people continue to endure. He concludes by reiterating the urgent cry for democracy in their country.
00:07:53 South African Apartheid and the Pursuit of Human Rights
A Legitimate Government Upholds Freedom of Speech: Mandela emphasizes the importance of freedom of speech as a fundamental right and a pillar of legitimacy for a constitutional order.
Citizens’ Right to Defend Fundamental Rights: He asserts that citizens should not face violence from security forces when exercising their rights, such as equality, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Vision for a Non-Racial Democracy: Mandela envisions a future where all individuals have equal voting rights and can be elected into government positions, regardless of race, color, creed, or gender.
Democratic Constitution and Rule of Law: He emphasizes the need for a democratic constitution, the rule of law, an entrenched bill of rights, and an independent judiciary to protect individual rights.
Respect for the United States’ History: Mandela acknowledges the historical significance of the institution he is addressing and expresses respect for the sacrifices made in the fight for independence and against tyranny.
Sincerity and Commitment to Political Arrangements: He assures Congress that the political arrangements sought for South Africa are deeply held convictions for which many have made sacrifices, including imprisonment and death.
Ongoing Struggle and Human Rights Violations: Mandela highlights the ongoing struggle against apartheid and the continued violence against those advocating for a non-racial democracy.
Economic Transformation and Reconstruction: He emphasizes the need for a strong and growing economy that addresses the needs of all South Africans, providing basic necessities and transforming the apartheid structure of the economy.
Intervention in the Economy: Mandela states that the democratic government will intervene in the economy through elected parliament to address pressing needs and promote economic development.
Public Sector’s Role in Economic Development: He emphasizes the importance of a public sector as part of a comprehensive strategy for economic development and restructuring.
No Ideological Positions on Business: Mandela clarifies that the ANC has no ideological stance against businesses and recognizes their role in economic development.
00:14:52 South Africa's Economic Objectives and Cooperation with America
Economic Policies: ANC’s commitment to a mixed economy with both public and private sector involvement. Recognition of the private sector as a critical engine of growth and development. Emphasis on creating conditions that foster investor confidence, fair returns, and stability.
Addressing Social Needs: Urgent need to address the material needs of the people, including food, shelter, and individual dignity, as part of the political settlement and democratization process. Acknowledgment that the anger of the poor is a result of the failure to respond to their basic needs.
Economic Cooperation: Desire for a mutually beneficial economic relationship with other nations, avoiding donor-recipient dynamics. Seeking to leverage external resources for capital, technology, expertise, and market access. Aiming for a relationship that also benefits the people of the partner nations.
Racial Harmony: Aspiration to transform South Africa into an oasis of good race relations, where black and white citizens coexist as equals. Belief that the eradication of racism in South Africa can serve as a model for the world.
Peace and Reconciliation: Appreciation for the value of peace as a reward in itself, despite the lack of personal experience with true peace. Acknowledgment of the generations of suffering and death endured by the people due to state violence.
00:21:14 Apartheid's End: Obstacles and Opportunities for Peace in South Africa
The Process Towards a Peaceful Settlement: Nelson Mandela emphasizes the ANC’s initiative in initiating the process towards a peaceful settlement. The process involves removing obstacles to negotiations, negotiating the mechanism to draft a new constitution, forming a constitution-making institution, and adopting a democratic constitution. This will lead to elections and the establishment of a body of lawmakers mandated by the entire population.
Challenges and Obstacles: Despite President de Klerk’s commitment to the peaceful process, Mandela acknowledges that significant hurdles lie ahead. Many white compatriots remain entrenched in the ideology of racism and may resist change. The potential for violence and conflict from those resisting democratic transformation is a concern.
Focus on Ending Apartheid: Mandela stresses the need to address the apartheid crime against humanity as the root cause of violence and conflict in South Africa. The apartheid system’s consequences extend beyond South Africa, affecting the entire southern African region, particularly Mozambique and Angola. Mandela emphasizes that lasting peace will only come when apartheid is eradicated.
00:25:41 South Africa's Struggle for Democracy and Freedom
Sanctions Remain Necessary: Mandela emphasizes the need for continued sanctions against South Africa, as the goal of abolishing white minority domination has not been fully achieved. South Africa is yet to transform into a united, democratic, and non-racial country, and sanctions are essential to maintain pressure for these changes.
Irreversible Course: Mandela calls for the people of South Africa to determine when profound changes and an irreversible process have been achieved, allowing for the lifting of sanctions. He highlights the importance of respecting South Africa’s sovereignty in determining its own path toward democracy.
Gratitude for Anti-Apartheid Efforts: Mandela expresses gratitude for the U.S. Congress’s principled struggle against apartheid, leading to the adoption of the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act. This act significantly contributed to the progress toward negotiations and the dismantling of apartheid.
Request for Material Resources: Mandela requests material resources from the U.S. to support the peace process and address needs arising from the changing situation in South Africa. He emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and assistance in promoting democracy and human rights.
Solidarity and Friendship: Mandela acknowledges the unwavering support and solidarity of the U.S. Congress and the American people in the fight against apartheid. He expresses appreciation for the understanding and empathy shown by the American public.
Moral Imperative to Resist Apartheid: Mandela explains the moral and ethical reasons behind his decision to resist apartheid, despite the personal risks involved. He emphasizes the responsibility to fight against tyranny and protect human rights, both domestically and globally.
Inspiration from American Leaders: Mandela cites the influence of American historical figures, such as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Martin Luther King, Jr., in inspiring his own activism. He draws parallels between the American struggle for independence and the South African struggle against apartheid.
Gratitude for Support: Mandela expresses gratitude for the efforts of the U.S. Congress in securing the release of political prisoners, including himself. He acknowledges the privilege of rejoining his people and working together toward a better future.
00:34:38 International Solidarity for South African Democracy and Human Rights
Message of Gratitude: Nelson Mandela expresses sincere gratitude to the international community for their efforts in transforming South Africa into a united, democratic, and non-racial country.
Collaboration for Democracy and Human Rights: Mandela recognizes the collaboration between the international community and the South African people in fighting for democracy and human rights globally.
Appreciation for Support: He acknowledges the role of the international community in enabling the release of political prisoners and the emancipation of South Africans from apartheid.
Aspirations for a United Nation: Mandela envisions a day when South Africa will be united and contribute to global efforts for liberty, human rights, prosperity, and peace.
Call for Solidarity against Racism: He emphasizes the need for continued solidarity against racism to ensure the realization of a united and just South Africa.
Commitment to Justice: Mandela expresses his determination to achieve justice swiftly and acknowledges the salutation, “blessed are the peacemakers,” as a potential recognition of their efforts.
Appreciation for the Invitation: He concludes by thanking the audience for their kind invitation and attention to his message.
Abstract
Nelson Mandela’s Vision for a Democratic South Africa: Embracing Human Mortality, Unity, and Global Collaboration
Nelson Mandela, in a greatly moving address to the United States Congress, presented a panoramic view of South Africa’s struggle against apartheid and his vision for a future marked by democracy, peace, and racial harmony. He opened with a philosophical reflection on human mortality, using it as a backdrop to emphasize the transient yet impactful nature of human endeavors. Mandela’s call for democracy, his firm stand on sanctions against South Africa, and his request for international collaboration form the crux of his message. Highlighting the dehumanizing effects of apartheid, he expressed gratitude for global anti-apartheid efforts, including those from the United States, and urged for continued action to dismantle the remaining vestiges of this oppressive system.
1. Reflection on Human Mortality and the Enduring Nature of Community:
Mandela began his address by acknowledging the fleeting nature of human existence, comparing it to a meteor’s passage through time and space. Despite this transience, he emphasized the resilience and enduring nature of the community, laying the groundwork for his message about the collective struggle and aspirations of the South African people. Mandela stressed the importance of persevering against adversity and highlighted the challenges faced by his fellow South Africans, including poverty, inequality, and racial discrimination. Mandela stressed the importance of persevering against adversity and highlighted the challenges faced by his fellow South Africans, including poverty, inequality, and racial discrimination. He urged the people to remain resolute in their determination to build a better future for themselves and their children.
2. The Core of Mandela’s Message: Democratic Transformation and Racial Equality:
Central to Mandela’s address was his vision for a democratic South Africa. He advocated for the urgent need for democracy to alleviate the suffering caused by apartheid. Mandela’s vision included a future where freedom of speech, a democratic constitution, and an independent judiciary would guarantee and protect individual rights for all, regardless of race, color, creed, or sex. He emphasized the importance of a legitimate government that upholds freedom of speech and ensures citizens’ rights to defend their fundamental rights without facing violence. Mandela envisioned a non-racial democracy, where all individuals have equal voting rights and can be elected into government positions, regardless of race, color, creed, or gender. He stressed the need for a democratic constitution, the rule of law, an entrenched bill of rights, and an independent judiciary to protect individual rights.
3. Acknowledging the Role of International Support and History:
Mandela expressed his deep appreciation for the international community’s support, particularly the United States Congress, for its role in adopting the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act. He highlighted the historical significance of this act in moving South Africa toward negotiations and recognized American historical figures who inspired the anti-apartheid movement. Mandela also acknowledged the historical significance of the institution he was addressing and expressed respect for the sacrifices made in the fight for independence and against tyranny.
4. Economic and Social Transformation Post-Apartheid:
Mandela outlined his economic objectives for post-apartheid South Africa, emphasizing the need for growth with equity, a mixed economy with a strong private sector, and a government role in economic restructuring. He envisioned transforming South Africa into an oasis of good race relations, eradicating racism, and fostering equality and global citizenship. Mandela emphasized the need for a strong and growing economy that addresses the needs of all South Africans, providing basic necessities and transforming the apartheid structure of the economy. Mandela clarified that the ANC has no ideological stance against businesses and recognizes their role in economic development. He also stated that the democratic government will intervene in the economy through elected parliament to address pressing needs and promote economic development. He emphasized the importance of a public sector as part of a comprehensive strategy for economic development and restructuring.
5. The Path to Peace and Reconciliation:
Mandela stressed the importance of peace and reconciliation in the new South Africa. He outlined a step-by-step process towards a peaceful settlement, beginning with negotiations and leading to the drafting of a democratic constitution and subsequent elections. Mandela envisioned a new South Africa, free from the legacy of apartheid and characterized by equality, justice, and peace. He expressed the purpose of his delegation’s visit to the United States: to share the troubles, trials, hopes, and aspirations of their people and to give them an opportunity to express their desires and aspirations for their relationship with the United States. Mandela emphasized the ongoing struggle against apartheid and the continued violence against those advocating for a non-racial democracy.
6. Challenges and the Need for Continued Sanctions:
Acknowledging the hurdles in achieving these goals, Mandela emphasized the need for continued sanctions against South Africa until substantial changes were made. He highlighted the ongoing consequences of apartheid, both within South Africa and in the region, and called for international support in maintaining pressure for transformation. Mandela reiterated the urgent cry for democracy in their country, emphasizing the need for an end to the suffering and pain that their people continue to endure. He made a powerful statement about the demand for democracy in their country, emphasizing the need for an end to the suffering and pain that their people continue to endure.
7. Gratitude and Aspirations for Future South Africa:
Message of Gratitude:
– Nelson Mandela expresses sincere gratitude to the international community for their efforts in transforming South Africa into a united, democratic, and non-racial country.
– He acknowledges the collaboration between the international community and the South African people in fighting for democracy and human rights globally.
– Mandela recognizes the role of the international community in enabling the release of political prisoners and the emancipation of South Africans from apartheid.
Appreciating Support:
– He concludes by thanking the audience for their kind invitation and attention to his message.
Aspirations for a United Nation:
– Mandela envisions a day when South Africa will be united and contribute to global efforts for liberty, human rights, prosperity, and peace.
– He emphasizes the need for continued solidarity against racism to ensure the realization of a united and just South Africa.
Commitment to Justice:
– Mandela expresses his determination to achieve justice swiftly and acknowledges the salutation, “blessed are the peacemakers,” as a potential recognition of their efforts.
In his concluding remarks, Mandela expressed his gratitude for the efforts that led to the release of political prisoners, including himself. He envisioned South Africa as a nation united in liberty, human rights, prosperity, and peace, calling for continued action against racism and for the emancipation of the South African people from apartheid. Mandela concluded by reiterating the urgent cry for democracy in their country.
8. Embracing Unity and Justice in a Global Context:
Mandela’s message was a powerful call to action, not just for South Africa but for the world. He urged for a united front against racism and for the establishment of a society where justice, liberty, and human rights are the cornerstones. His vision for South Africa was one of a nation that would stand as a proud ally in the global community, contributing to universal peace and human rights. Mandela’s message was not only a roadmap for his country’s future but also an enduring lesson in resilience, unity, and the power of collective action in the face of adversity.
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