10:28am Wednesday 16th July 2008
By Elizabeth Pears
It may not be the card most anticipated by Nelson Mandela, but it is certainly one that is well meant.
In a show of almost unprecedented solidarity, Haringey councillors put aside political grievances at a full council meeting on Monday and unanimously agreed to send birthday wishes to the former South African president.
Mr Mandela, one of the world's most respected political leaders, who turned 90 on Tuesday, has a remarkable link with Haringey - known for its cultural diversity.
In 1893 at Alexandra Palace the very first Nelson Mandela birthday concert was held to mark the peace activist's 65th birthday.
So powerful was the support for Mandela that it inspired one of those present, Jerry Dammers of The Specials, to pen Free Nelson Mandela - the song that has become synonymous with Mandela's struggle for freedom and equality for his people.
A number of tributes from councillors on both sides of the chamber were made to the great leader as they expressed how their lives were touched by Mandela's courage.
Council Leader George Meehan, said: "This is an opportunity to join with the world to say thank you for your leadership, thank you for your inspiration, thank you for your courage in fighting injustices.
"It gives me enormous pleasure, and is also quite humbling, that I can move this motion to celebrate the life of Nelson Mandela on his 90th birthday."
After 27 years of incarceration, Mandela came to Haringey in 1990 as the guest of honour at a special dinner hosted by Oliver Tambo, former president of the African National Congress, and his wife Adelaide at their home in Muswell Hill.
The Tambo's, key players in the fight against apartheid in South Africa, lived in Alexandra Park Road for 30 years. Their home became a hub for exiles, frequented by significant members like Yusuf Dadoo, president of the South African Indian Congress (SAIC) and Vella Pillay, a dedicated SAIC member - both Haringey residents.
A bust of Oliver Tambo now sits proudly in the Albert Road Recreation Ground.
Speaking at the meeting was Mike Terry, former secretary of the UK's Anti-Apartheid Movement who has worked closely with Mr Mandela.
He said: "I can think of few places, if any, outside of South Africa where it would be more appropriate to celebrate this occasion.
"Haringey can be truly proud of its close association with Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo and many others whose struggles and sacrifices contributed to ridding the world of the evil of apartheid."
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