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Celebrating 30 Years of Black History Month

We’re thrilled to present our mural dedicated to Nelson Mandela.

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VPVD Taylor - Mandela Mural Banner

We’re thrilled to present our mural dedicated to Nelson Mandela.

The commissioned work is in conjunction with the Union’s celebrations for Black History Month. Now in its 30th year, the month highlights the vital contributions that Black people have made towards society and creates awareness on the achievements made by some of the world's most iconic figures.

The striking artwork, done by Glasgow based artists Conzo & Glöbel, is accompanied by one of his many influential quotes: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” The work can be seen in the Level 10 meeting room named after him.

The piece also aims to shine a light towards Mandela’s strong relationship with Glasgow and the Union. During his campaign for freedom, Glasgow was the first city in the world to give Mandela Freedom Of The City, in 1981. More attention was raised in 1986 with the renaming of St George's Place in the city centre to Nelson Mandela Place - the same street where the South African consulate-general was located.

The Union also showed its support and appreciation to Mandela’s work by electing him as honorary member of the Students' Association and dedicating a room in the Union in his name. The room was unveiled by his daughter, Princess Zenani Mandela Dlamini, on July 3rd 1985.

Taylor Wong, Vice President Diversity, said: “With this being the 30th year of Black History Month, I wanted to leave a lasting impression within the Union of how we embrace, recognise and appreciate our diverse communities in Glasgow and the University.“I’m delighted that we’ve managed to honour such an influential figure. I look forward to seeing how the work inspires and motivates the next generation of student at Strathclyde.”

 

 

 

 

 

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