Free Mandela

Card with design featuring Nelson and Winnie Mandela.

Nelson and Winnie Mandela were awarded the freedom of the City of Aberdeen in 1984. This leaflet advertised a march and rally celebrating the award, held in November 1989. It was sponsored by Aberdeen District Council and supported by local trade union branches. 

Early in 1990 the AAM joined with the ANC and other organisations to set up a British Nelson Mandela Reception Committee, convened by AAM President Trevor Huddleston. As well as celebrating Mandela’s freedom, the Committee called for the release of all South African political prisoners and the creation of conditions for negotiations for a new democratic constitution. This leaflet publicised a demonstration at the South African Embassy to coincide with President de Klerk’s expected announcement of the date of Mandela’s release.

Thousands of people gathered spontaneously outside South Africa House in London on 11 February 1990 to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s release.

Thousands of people gathered spontaneously outside South Africa House in London on 11 February 1990 to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s release.