African Activist Archive

The mailing invites people to participate in the Nelson Mandela National Reception Committee (USA), which has been formed in coordination with the African National Congress (ANC) and national reception committees in 34 countries. The group's mandate is to promote and coordinate activities to celebrate Nelson Mandela's release and his contribution to the freedom struggle. Its goal is to maintain pressure on the Pretoria regime until apartheid is dismantled. Although some concessions have been made, many political prisoners remain incarcerated, the state of emergency has not been lifted, and black citizens continue to be deprived of all political rights. Until steps are taken towards the creation of a democratic, non-racial South Africa, sanctions should continue and be strengthened. On March 22, 1990, there will be a fundraising evening of entertainment at the Calabash Club; proceeds will be used to help the ANC re-establish offices throughout South Africa. On April 7 at the Greater New Hope Baptist Church, a political and cultural event will feature Aubrey Mokoena, a leader of the South African Mandela Reception Committee, the reggae group Determination, music by SACHABA, poetry by South African poet Palesa Makhale, and a message of support by Rev. Melvin Brown. The National Reception Committee has chapters in Washington D.C. and New York City. The Washington, D.C. chapter includes both individuals and anti-apartheid, union, church, student, community and political organizations. This chapter has already held several successful demonstrations in front of the South African and British embassies, as well as a spontaneous celebration on the day Nelson Mandela was freed. The mailing includes leaflets advertising the March 22 and April 7 events.

African Activist Archive

[Dear Friend: Nelson Mandela's release from prison has raised the hopes of the vast majority of South Africans that apartheid will soon be ended.]

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