Event information
The annual Human Rights Festival offers four days of activism, topical debates, reflection, and entertainment to Joburgers. For March, Constitution Hill becomes a hub of activism, art, music, debate, and action, all for the people, by the people.
This milestone event offers a dynamic programme featuring activism, dialogue, art, culture, exhibitions, books, poetry, film, a children’s festival, and live music at The Sounds of Music Concert. It’s an opportunity to reignite the values enshrined in our constitution, urging a collective commitment to equality, dignity, freedom, and justice for all. By bringing together the public and social justice organisations, the festival aims to demonstrate the enduring power and relevance of human rights.
At the heart of the festival lies the critical intersection of creative cultural expression and bold storytelling by artists, filmmakers, and musicians. This synergy engages and inspires audiences on human rights issues through various forms of art and conversation, fostering meaningful partnerships and relationships.
The We, The People Walk is one of the ways that the festival raises human rights issues. The symbolic 5 km walk invites South Africans from all walks of life to come together in a powerful display of solidarity, remembrance, and commitment to constitutional values.
The festival also offers a Curated Market, where festivalgoers can discover, shop, and support some of South Africa’s most talented artisans, designers, and food vendors.
Each year, the festival unites NGOs, social justice organisations, think tanks, media partners, and more to address pressing human rights issues. South Africans are increasingly empowered, returning to activism and setting the stage for impactful change. The timing is ideal for organised social movements to open dialogues with fellow citizens and policymakers.