Brussels, Brussels, Belgium, 14th Aug 2024 - Since 2010 the world has celebrated Nelson Mandela International Day on his birthday, the 18th of July, to honour his life and legacy.
To commemorate the day, the Church of Scientology & Community Centre of Dublin welcomed 200 guests including distinguished human rights experts.
The story and impact of Mandela was ably portrayed by keynote speaker Dr. David Nyaluke, Vice President of the African Scholars Association of Ireland. His presentation outlined, among other things, Mandela’s visit to Ireland, his address to Dáil Éireann as well as the Freedom of Dublin award he received at the Mansion House in 1990.
“To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” - Nelson Mandela
Dr. Ebun Joseph, Founder & CEO of the Institution of Anti-Racism and Black Studies, shared her heartfelt introduction to the subject of human rights and the importance of social responsibility.
The guests were introduced to the United for Human Rights grassroots educational programme and its award-winning materials which are used around the world.
Attendees enjoyed performances from Ukrainian flutist Olena Topolska, and legendary singer-songwriter Francie Conway who was accompanied on stage by his son Rory. Authentic traditional African food was especially prepared for the occasion.
“I think that this commemoration is very important because Mandela’s story, as well as the history of Africa, are the tales of oppression and human rights violations,” said Dr. Nyluke. “Mandela used the human rights framework to fight for freedom and liberty for his country and its people. While commemorating Mandela, we can also learn how to fight for our human rights peacefully. It is really encouraging that the Church of Scientology has put education for human rights as one of the central cornerstones of its programmes. Its focus on the next generation is important, as younger people are the main actors on tomorrow’s stage, and once they are provided with tools, they will make this world a better place for all to live in.”
The United for Human Rights programme provides educational materials, free of charge, to educators, civic and community leaders, and anyone wishing to educate others on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The programme is supported by the Church of Scientology in keeping with the vision of Scientology Founder, L. Ron Hubbard, who said “Human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream.”
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The Church of Scientology & Community Centre in Firhouse, Dublin was established in 2017 as a hub for local activities and events, in keeping with Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard’s intention that all Scientology Churches are to serve as a home for the entire community and a meeting ground for cooperative efforts. The Church & Community Centre hosts weekly events, while working together with all denominations and numerous community groups on initiatives, including drug prevention, human rights education, environmental, cultural, charitable and art projects. In 1956, L. Ron Hubbard lived in Dublin with offices in Merrion Square, where he launched humanitarian initiatives, which continue to flourish throughout the world today.
Media Contact
Organization: European Office Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights
Contact Person: Ivan Arjona
Website: https://www.europeanaffairs.eu
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Address:Boulevard de Waterloo 103
City: Brussels
State: Brussels
Country:Belgium
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