Historical Reparation and Mandela's Legacy

The virtual discussion on “ Historical Reparation and Mandela’s Legacy ,” held on Friday, July 18, analyzed Nelson Mandela ’s struggle against apartheid and its impact on building a more just and equitable South Africa. The event, which took place in commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day, also reflected on current challenges in the fight for justice and equality, drawing inspiration from the legacy of the South African leader.

Opening: Pablo VommaroExecutive Director of CLACSO
Participated: Cintia Santos Diallo (Brazil), Arbey Bustamante Valdez (Colombia), Helena Veloso (Angola), Jesus Maria Serna (Mexico) and Kezia Zabrina Henry Knight (Cuba).
Moderated: Rosa Campoalegre (Cuba)
Organized by: CLACSO, the Nelson Mandela Chair, G-TEP, AINALC, AIDAF and the CLACSO Working Group “Afro-descendants and counter-hegemonic proposals”.

“In a world marked by wars, genocides, and multiple forms of structural violence, we reaffirm the importance of recognizing and making visible Afro-descendant peoples, their struggles, knowledge, and rights,” stated Pablo Vommaro , who added: “At CLACSO, we maintain that we must build an anti-racist community that combats the structural and cultural racism still deeply rooted in our societies. Nelson Mandela, a symbol of consistency, resistance, and the fight for the dignity of peoples, inspires us today more than ever. He spent 27 years in prison for standing up to the racist apartheid regime. His legacy remains relevant.”

Finally, he highlighted two statements by Mandela that resonate in this context: “Peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the creation of an environment where everyone can live together.” “It is not enough to talk about peace; we must believe in peace. And it is not enough to believe; we must work constantly to achieve it.”

And Vommaro concluded: “At CLACSO we remain committed to building anti-racist networks, knowledge and critical training, on the path towards more just, egalitarian and racism-free societies.”

Virtual activity via MEET platform.

Certificates of academic participation were awarded.