Canadians across the country joined South Africans in mourning the passing of Nelson Mandela, and celebrating the former president’s legacy. Mr. Mandela was the first black South African president, and is known worldwide for his leadership in the struggle against apartheid.
“With the death of Nelson Mandela, the world has lost one of its great moral leaders and statesmen,” said Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. “On behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians, and I extend our condolences to Mr. Mandela’s widow, his entire family and all citizens of South Arica.”
Nelson Mandela had an established connection to Canada. He marked his release from prison, in 1990, with a visit to Canada where he called the country his “home away from home”. He was also the first individual to be awarded honorary Canadian citizenship.