2013 Senate Joint Resolution 62
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: the life and public service of Nelson R. Mandela.
Whereas, Nelson R. Mandela, South Africa's anti-apartheid leader, Nobel laureate, and beloved world figure, passed away on December 5, 2013, at the age of 95; and
Whereas, Nelson Mandela, who was one of the most brilliant, courageous, and charismatic political figures of our time, united South Africa under the most improbable circumstances of rampant racism, inseparable minority rule, and widespread oppression; and
Whereas, Nelson Mandela, who was born in 1918 and schooled as a lawyer, was dedicated to breaking the shackles of segregation in South Africa and spoke proudly against the minority rule of the South African government and sweeping injustice across the nation; and
Whereas, Nelson Mandela was charged with treason for protesting the apartheid government and spent twenty-seven years as a political prisoner, and was released in 1990 free of any resentment or hatred, determined to serve both the people who once oppressed him and the people who remained oppressed; and
Whereas, Nelson Mandela fought against "white domination and black domination," avoided civil war, and bridged the "chasms" that divided South Africa for countless years, becoming the first black president of South Africa, from 1994 to 1999; and
Whereas, Nelson Mandela was a man of many handshakes who peacefully transformed South Africa's tradition of minority rule and presided over South Africa's transition from apartheid, all proving that there is "freedom in forgiving"; and
Whereas, Nelson Mandela is recognized as a resounding voice for developing nations across the globe, remembered as the winner of the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize, and celebrated as the author of "Long Walk to Freedom" and "Conversations with Myself"; and
Whereas, Nelson Mandela's unrelenting dedication, tremendous concern for truth, and moral compass comparable to few have left the world with a legacy of forgiveness that will influence the perspectives of many to come; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the senate, the assembly concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin legislature commend the life and public service of Nelson R. Mandela, extend their condolences to the people of South Africa and his friends and family, mourn his passing, and finally, thank him for his endless perseverance: "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
