/R E P E A T -- Mandela's legacy inspires Canadians to take part in the Spirit of Mandela Freedom Walk/
TORONTO, June 16, 2015 /CNW/ - Mandela Legacy Canada (MLC) hosts the Spirit of Mandela Freedom Walk on Saturday June 20th on University Avenue, ceremonially designated by the City of Toronto as Nelson Mandela Boulevard. This occasion marks the 25th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's first visit to Canada. It will honour the memory and legacy of the iconic South African statesman and president whom Canada had made an honorary citizen. The Walk is expected to bring together hundreds of individuals committed to Mandela's vision of an inclusive society free from all forms of discrimination.
"Although Mandela is the source of inspiration for the Freedom Walk", says Lloyd McKell, MLC chair, "the Freedom Walk is about our own commitment to a society that respects human rights for all, including the rights of First Peoples of Canada. The Walk pays tribute to First Peoples on the eve of National Aboriginal Day.
Students from Nelson Mandela Park Public School will lead the Freedom Walk from the corner of Armoury Street and University Avenue at about 12:00 p.m. and proceed north to Queen's Park, accompanied by African drumming. Participants will bring signs, banners, and percussion instruments to create excitement and music along the Freedom Walk.
The Queen's Park ceremony begins at 1:30 p.m. and will feature remarks by the Hon. Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario, John Tory, Mayor of Toronto, His Excellency Membathisi Mdladlana, High Commissioner for South Africa, Hon. David Onley, former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, and Akua Benjamin, veteran social justice activist of Toronto. The concert features top performers such as Digging Roots, 2010 Juno Award winner for Aboriginal Album Of The Year, singer-songwriter Amanda Martinez, Lorraine Klaasen, the eclectic South African Canadian performer, hip hop artist, Najjah Calibur, and spoken-word artist, Dwayne Morgan. Host of the ceremony will be Farley Flex, motivational speaker and former Canadian Idol judge.
About Mandela Legacy Canada
The MLC is a not-for-profit community organization formed following Nelson Mandela's passing in December 2013. MLC is made up of a Board of Directors and a membership of volunteers from diverse sectors of the community.The committee seeks to promote the legacy of Nelson Mandela by initiating and supporting activities in Canada, which preserve the memory of Mandela's life and achievements. For more information: www.mandelacanada.com or [email protected]
SOURCE Mandela Legacy Canada
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Media Contacts: Lloyd McKell, Chair , Mandela Legacy Canada, E: [email protected], Res: 416-755-8476, Cell: 647-200-5808; Joan Pierre, Event Planner, E: [email protected], C: 416-579-8377
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