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Beyoncé Pays Tribute To Nelson Mandela In Preparation For Global Citizen Show

Beyoncé is still kinda “On The Run” — with her and Jay Z’s Global Citizen performance coming up this weekend in South Africa. In preparation for the big event, Bey penned a letter to Nelson Mandela which was published in South Africa’s ‘Sowetan’ this week.

Bey’s publicist Yvette Noel-Schure posted about the letter, which appeared in full on Bey’s website.

The later discusses Bey’s first meeting with Mandela in 2004 for the 46664 AIDS Benefit Concert in Cape Town, where she reveals, “the impact you have had on my life resonates with me today and every day. Your kindness and gratitude for every experience, and your ability to forgive are lessons I have learned and will pass on to my three children. My entire family holds you in high regard.”

Bey even says how she feels it’s an honor for her to come to South Africa to celebrate Mandela and describes how his vision for his nation has inspired her deeply:

I remember taking that walk with you back to the prison on Robben Island where you spent 18 of those imprisoned 27 years. I recall your measured but focused steps in as you recounted the stories of the struggles, the sacrifices and your resilience. You smiled as you talked to a crowd of artists and their guests, including my mother, who first told my sister and me about the great Nelson Mandela. In that moment I truly understood your heart and humility.

You made it possible for so many people like me to reject impossibilities and understand our capabilities in making lasting change in the world. The smallest efforts could change the trajectory for so many living in extreme poverty, facing injustices, the indecency of racism and fighting for their rights as humans.

As we celebrate the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, honoring your centennial year, I promise that we have made your dreams our own. Your work and your sacrifices were not in vain. I will cherish every moment shared in your presence and use the lessons learned from you as fuel to stir positive ideas and solutions.

Beautiful words right?

Keep reading to see photos from the trip so far that have been posted by Bey’s dancers, photographer and publicist.