Statement on Nelson Mandela’s passing – National Consumers League

December 6, 2013

Contact: NCL Communications, Ben Klein, (202) 835-3323, benk@nclnet.org

Washington, DC — The following statement can be attributed to NCL Executive Director Sally Greenberg:

The National Consumers League mourns the death of Nelson Mandela, one of the most transformational and inspirational leaders in the modern era. Mr. Mandela was willing to give his life to the cause of dismantling South Africa’s vicious and oppressive system of racial apartheid. He spent 27 years in prison before being released in 1990, going on to become President of South Africa. Mandela stood for dignity and respect for people the world over. Admirably, when he accepted the role of leader of his nation, he did so without turning to rancor or vengeance against his earlier tormentors. In so doing, he inspired his countrymen and women to put down their weapons, reject anger and recrimination, and strive for a peaceable and harmonious transition to democracy.

The National Consumers League’s 114 year commitment to championing the rights of consumers and the dignity of working people is very much in keeping with the causes to which Nelson Mandela was devoted.   In the pantheon of great leaders throughout human history, Mandela surely stands at the top. We salute his life and mourn his passing.

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About the National Consumers League

The National Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America’s pioneer consumer organization. Our mission is to protect and promote social and economic justice for consumers and workers in the United States and abroad. For more information, visit https://nclnet.org.