Global Human Rights Symbol

THE INSPIRATION:

In order to leverage President Mandela’s global stature as the preeminent Human Rights icon, David Clark uses barbed wire from the notorious prison on Robben Island where President Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years as inspiration to create the Global Human Rights Symbol.

“I thought it would be poignant to use barbed wire which is understood to be a symbol of oppression, and literally twist it into a shape of hope.” –David Clark

THE LAUNCH:

The barbed wire pin is publicly displayed for the first time in Cape Town by President Nelson Mandela, Oprah Winfrey and Archbishop Tutu on December 6, 2002 at a VIP Gala hosted by President Mandela and David Clark. Event supporters included President Clinton, Bono, The Edge, Naomi Campbell and Sir Richard Branson. President Mandela was also photographed by renowned photographer David Rose displaying the Global Human Rights pin the following day at his home in Cape Town.

Mandela_Oprah_Tutu copy

PHOTO GALLERY:

: President Mandela displays the Global Human Rights Symbol

: Global Human Rights logo created by Michael Page

: President Mandela displays Human Rights pin with Oprah Winfrey and Archbishop Tutu

: President Mandela, Oprah Winfrey and Archbishop Tutu share a light moment

: Robben Island

: Robben Island barbed wire

: Robben Island barbed wite

: Mandela imprisoned on Robben Island

: President Mandela looks out of cell window

The Global Human Rights Symbol was created by David Clark, the pin was designed by Elliott Arkin and the logo was created by Michael Page.