Mandela On Poverty

Yesterday, Nelson Mandela gave a speech in Trafalgar Square in London for the campaign to end poverty in the developing world. The old statesman is still a world class orator - he can raise goosebumps even reading his words. Check out the whole speech here.

Here's a snippet for flavour:

Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings.

And overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life.

While poverty persists, there is no true freedom.

...

I say to all those leaders [the G8]: do not look the other way; do not hesitate. Recognise that the world is hungry for action, not words. Act with courage and vision.

...

Sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great. You can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.

Of course the task will not be easy. But not to do this would be a crime against humanity, against which I ask all humanity now to rise up.

Make Poverty History in 2005. Make History in 2005. Then we can all stand with our heads held high.


Wow. Hat tip to Katch22 at the Daily Grail for this.