Schools, businesses, community groups and residents across Liverpool are being encouraged to take part in a citywide programme of activities to mark Mandela Day 2026.
Led by Mandela8 in partnership with Liverpool City Council and Liverpool BID Company, the initiative aims to bring people together through acts of service, learning and community action inspired by the values of Nelson Mandela. In 1994, Nelson Mandela was granted the Freedom of the City of Liverpool, one of the city’s highest honours.
Observed internationally on 18 July, Mandela Day celebrates the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela and encourages people to dedicate a time to making a positive difference, reflecting the 67 years he devoted to public service.
This year’s theme, “It’s In Your Hands”, highlights the role everyone can play in building stronger, fairer communities and tackling inequality through practical action. Organisations and individuals are encouraged to plan activities throughout Mandela Week, taking place from 13 to 18 July 2026.
Suggested activities include litter picks, community planting projects, fundraising events, food bank collections, neighbourhood walks, digital support for older residents and volunteering opportunities with local groups.
As part of the programme, Mandela8 will host a free guided walk beginning at the Kuumba Imani Millennium Centre in Liverpool 8. Led by Robert Awork Jr (arts and community activist), the walk will explore the history, heritage and culture of the area, with a particular focus on the experiences and contributions of Liverpool’s Black community. The event will be supported by digital resources, including videos, podcasts and online content, helping participants gain a deeper understanding of the area’s rich history and the communities that have shaped it.
Liverpool’s connection to Nelson Mandela is also marked by the Freedom Bridge at Princes Park, which features a pavilion and 32 stone pedestals inscribed with his words. The pedestals represent the oil drums Mandela and fellow prisoners used to grow vegetables on the rooftop of Pollsmoor Prison during his sentence.
Landmark buildings across Liverpool will also be lit up in yellow on Mandela Day, joining cities around the world in a visual show of solidarity with Mandela’s legacy. Businesses and organisations with prominent buildings are invited to take part in the lighting and share images on social media.
Schools, businesses, public institutions, community organisations and residents are all encouraged to take part and share their activities throughout the week using the hashtag #MandelaDay2026. For more details about the day visit Mandela8 website to learn more.
Cllr Ruth Bennett, Deputy Leader of Liverpool City Council said: “Mandela Day is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the values Nelson Mandela stood for and consider how we can make a positive difference in our communities. The theme, ‘It’s In Your Hands’, reminds us that tackling inequality and building a more inclusive city requires action from everyone.
“Liverpool has a proud history of standing up for equality and social justice. Through our anti-racism work and partnerships across the city, we are committed to creating a place where everyone feels welcome, valued and able to thrive. I encourage residents, schools, businesses and community organisations to get involved and help make Mandela Day 2026 a success.”
Michelle Cox MBE, Interim Chair of Mandela8 said: “Mandela Day offers Liverpool a powerful opportunity to demonstrate how the values of Nelson Mandela remain relevant today. It is great to see schools, communities and civic institutions get involved every year.
“Mandela Day reminds us that everyone has the power to make a difference. This is a unique opportunity to demonstrate how Mandela’s values can be translated into practical action across Liverpool, continuing to support our annual campaign encouraging people to celebrate our diversity and differences.”
Bill Addy, Chief Executive of Liverpool BID Company, said: “We are proud to once again be supporting Mandela Day. This is a moment for our city and communities to come together. The relevance of the day continues, with a focus on learning and active participation helping to strengthen a city built on equality and accessibility for all.”
