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Liverpool is preparing to observe Mandela Day 2026 with a wide-ranging programme that invites schools, businesses, community groups, and local residents to actively participate in commemorative events. The initiative, led by Mandela8 in collaboration with Liverpool City Council and Liverpool BID Company, is designed to unite the city through acts of service, education, and community engagement, all inspired by the values upheld by Nelson Mandela. This celebration also recalls the significant bond between Mandela and Liverpool, marked by the honour he received in 1994 when he was bestowed the Freedom of the City, one of Liverpool’s highest distinctions.
Mandela Day is recognized globally on 18 July, a date that honours Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy and encourages individuals to contribute positively by dedicating time to meaningful causes. Reflecting Mandela’s 67 years of commitment to public service, the 2026 theme, “It’s In Your Hands,” emphasizes the role everyone has in fostering more equitable and resilient communities. Activities planned throughout Mandela Week—from 13 to 18 July—aim to engage people in practical efforts to combat inequality and improve their surroundings.
Suggested community actions include a variety of meaningful activities, such as neighbourhood litter cleans, community planting projects, food bank drives, fundraising events, and offering digital support services to older residents. Additionally, Mandela8 will organize a free guided walk beginning at the Kuumba Imani Millennium Centre in Liverpool 8. This walk, led by arts and community activist Robert Awork Jr, will deepen participants’ understanding of local history, culture, and the contributions of Liverpool’s Black community. Supporting multimedia materials like videos and podcasts will complement the experience, providing richer insight into the area’s heritage.
Liverpool’s connection to Nelson Mandela is also symbolized by the Freedom Bridge at Princes Park, which features a pavilion and 32 stone pedestals engraved with Mandela’s words. These pedestals commemorate the oil drums used by Mandela and fellow prisoners to grow vegetables during imprisonment at Pollsmoor Prison. Furthermore, city landmarks will be illuminated in yellow on Mandela Day, creating a visual tribute that aligns Liverpool with global celebrations of Mandela’s legacy. Community members, schools, businesses, and institutions are encouraged to share their participation and activities on social media using the hashtag #MandelaDay2026.
Commenting on the event, Cllr Ruth Bennett, Deputy Leader of Liverpool City Council, stated: “Mandela Day is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the values Nelson Mandela stood for and consider how we can make a positive difference in our communities. The theme, ‘It’s In Your Hands’, reminds us that tackling inequality and building a more inclusive city requires action from everyone.” She further highlighted Liverpool’s commitment to equality, social justice, and the promotion of an inclusive city where everyone can flourish.
Michelle Cox MBE, Interim Chair of Mandela8, expressed the significance of the day by saying, “Mandela Day offers Liverpool a powerful opportunity to demonstrate how the values of Nelson Mandela remain relevant today. It is great to see schools, communities and civic institutions get involved every year.” She also underlined the day’s aim to transform Mandela’s principles into concrete community actions that celebrate diversity citywide.
Bill Addy, Chief Executive of Liverpool BID Company, reflected on the ongoing importance of Mandela Day in the city: “We are proud to once again be supporting Mandela Day. This is a moment for our city and communities to come together. The relevance of the day continues, with a focus on learning and active participation helping to strengthen a city built on equality and accessibility for all.”
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