MANDELA: Local Leaders, Celebrities Honor a Champion of Human Rights

Southern California reacted with grief to news of the death Thursday of  former South African president Nelson Mandela, with actors and political leaders calling him a "hero," a "true giant" and the  "greatest teacher."

Mandela died Thursday night South Africa time at the age of 95. He had battled health issues in recent years, including a recurring lung infection that led to numerous hospitalizations.

“Today, it is with a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of Nelson Mandela—one of the greatest human rights leaders the world has ever known,” wrote Rep. Janice Hahn (D-Los Angeles) in a written statement. Hahn represents the 40 Congressional District that includes South Gate and Lynwood.

“As a determined fighter for democracy, he endured unimaginable pain and sacrifice for the people of his nation, and inspired millions around the world.” Hahn wrote. “He was a man of great moral courage, humility and compassion. Let us reaffirm his vision for peace and justice for all mankind and his unfaltering faith in the strength of the human spirit. The Mandela family and the people of South Africa are in my heartfelt prayers."

Hahn also included a quote from Mandela: “No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”

Actor Morgan Freeman, who portrayed Mandela in the film "Invictus,'' hailed him as a "true giant.''

"Today the world lost one of the true giants of the past century,'' Freeman said. "Nelson Mandela was a man of incomparable honor, unconquerable strength and unyielding resolve – a saint to many, a hero to all who treasure liberty, freedom and the dignity of humankind."