A Point of View: Nelson Mandela—Honoring His Legacy and Its Impact on Diversity

by Brittany J. Harris

Last week, humanity lost a hero. Nelson Mandela, the revolutionary, the activist, the first black President of South Africa, died at 95.

We all can learn from the legacy of President Mandela—his spirit of reconciliation and forgiveness, his commitment to human rights and freedom, his selflessness, his ability love and respect others even without reciprocation, and his dedication to bringing about change. These are all aspiration worthy. And while our scope of impact may not be as large as Mr. Mandela’s, we can make a difference in our own lives and those around us.

There’s a quote by President Mandela that resonates with me:

“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”-Nelson Mandela

If love can be taught, then I am convinced that understanding, tolerance, and acceptance can be too. Mr. Mandela’s legacy is a reminder to me of why diversity and inclusion work is, and will continue to be, relevant—and why it goes beyond discussions of race and gender numbers, “business cases,” and “creating organizational value.” This work is meant to teach people, and develop within ourselves the ability to recognize, accept, and understand those things outside of the comfort zone of what we know, feel, and believe. This work is meant to cultivate productive environments where we can have seemingly “uncomfortable” conversations, disagree, and still be able to reconcile our differences. This work is meant to be free of judgment, because I have unconscious biases just like you.

None of the aforementioned is easy—Mr. Mandela’s work and contributions definitely weren’t easy. And diversity work isn’t always easy either, but Mr. Mandela teaches us that it is indeed possible to incite change (no matter the magnitude) amidst some of the most difficult circumstances. I am inspired by that.  And as I continue my studies in diversity and inclusion, and work with diversity and affirmative action each day, I will take that inspiration with me knowing the efforts I put forth are a piece of a much bigger picture.