NOMINEE: Nelson Mandela
NOMINATED BY: Donna E. Shalala, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services
In a century that has produced so many leaders of
unconscionable evil, I am proud to nominate as Person of the
Century one who helped reaffirm our basic faith in humanity:
former South African President Mandela. After suffering more
than 25 years in prison, Mandela could easily have answered the
brutality of apartheid with violence and hate. Instead, he
responded with an unwavering vision of peace and reconciliation.
By transcending the horrors of his time, he not only brought
freedom to South Africa, he also reflected the very best of the
human spirit. I've had an opportunity during my work to see the
results of hate, hopelessness and despair. Through his unique,
moral leadership, Mandela has succeeded in reminding
America--and the world--that, together, we can do better.
--Donna E. Shalala, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services
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