Alderman Ashanti Hamilton and Alderman Joe Davis, Sr. co-hosted a documentary film screening and event last week on Wednesday, July 18 marking International Nelson Mandela Day, in honor of the Nobel Peace Prize winner and former president of South Africa at the Villard Square Library. Alderman Hamilton said the United Nations General Assembly in 2009 declared July 18 as International Nelson Mandela Day across the globe – celebrated on Mr. Mandela’s birthday. “Nelson Mandela was South Africa ’s first democratically elected president, and he worked tirelessly to fight poverty, to reconcile bitter problems left in the wake of Apartheid and to unify his country,” he said. Mandela celebrated his 94th birthday this year. Alderman Davis said his work as chair of the City of Milwaukee ’s Sister Cities Committee and with the National League of Cities has exposed him to the “great depth of courage and honor” that Nelson Mandela possesses. “I have tremendous respect for President Mandela and believe the film has an uplifting message that will resonate with attendees,” he said. Pictured above with the two alderman is Davis’ wife, Magugu a native of South Africa. (Photo by Robert A. Bell)