WHEREAS, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was unique to the world in his influence and impact, embodying the transcendent truth that the cruelty of ignorance withers in the light of a just cause; and
     WHEREAS, Mandela's life reminds us that there is no greater example than to stand for equality, and his legacy reminds us that history and humanity will always aspire to those who did; and
     WHEREAS, Mandela was freed from prison after twenty-seven years and immediately began negotiating with South African President Frederik Willem de Klerk to begin the process of ending apartheid; and
     WHEREAS, On December 10, 1993, Mandela and de Klerk were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their work to peacefully bring an end to apartheid and lay the foundation for democracy on a one person – one vote principle; and
     WHEREAS, The first democratic election in 1994 allowed people of all races to vote as equals, wherein Mandela became the first president of a post-apartheid South Africa; and
     WHEREAS, The 1994 election began the process of restoring balance to a bitterly divided nation, reminding the world that free and fair elections are at the foundation of freedom and democracy; and
     WHEREAS, Forgiveness and inclusiveness were a hallmark of his presidency; and
     WHEREAS, His contributions as a leader and statesman to the nation of South Africa provided many lessons for all nations – particularly regarding the importance of civil rights which allow open elections and provide protections against unwarranted search and imprisonment; and
     WHEREAS, Mandela firmly believed that, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world"; and
     WHEREAS, Mandela stressed that the ability for all families to be lovingly united was paramount to the anti-apartheid movement; and
     WHEREAS, While the fight for equality is an ongoing battle, Mandela's example in South Africa reminds us that it is one we must continue;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize and honor the life and work of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela for his invaluable contributions to the lives of those in South Africa and the world at large.