This weekend, Johannesburg will host the much-anticipated Human Rights Festival at Constitution Hill.
The event, running from March 20 to March 23, is the 7th edition of the festival, and it promises to be a celebration of human rights, art, and culture.
Some of the standout artists this year include jazz sensation Mandisi Dyantyis and renowned filmmaker Mmabatho Montsho.
Honoring Human Rights Day
The festival is taking place under the theme “A Just and Inclusive South Africa,” perfectly timed around the Human Rights Day long weekend.
The event honors the legacy of those who lost their lives in the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre, while also raising awareness around human rights issues.
Acting CEO Siyabonga Hlongwane highlighted the importance of the festival as a space for people to discuss the challenges facing South Africa and the world at large, and to explore ways to bring about meaningful change based on social justice and human rights.
The event’s agenda includes a range of discussions, including topics like the impact of Trump’s administration on LGBTIQ+ communities in the Global South, youth-led climate justice movements, wellness as an act of revolution, and the legacy of Winnie Mandela.
Celebrating Arts and Culture at the Festival
One of the most exciting parts of the Human Rights Festival is its focus on local art and culture.
The festival kicks off on March 21 with a powerful drumming session that will feature 1,000 drums, symbolizing the event’s commitment to uplifting marginalized voices.
Over the next two days, attendees can enjoy a selection of film screenings, curated by former actress and award-winning filmmaker Mmabatho Montsho.
These films will focus on human rights issues, with particular attention to children’s rights and a workshop on using storytelling as a tool for social change.
Montsho expressed her excitement for the festival, saying, “The 2025 Human Rights Film Festival promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring event, and we look forward to sharing it with audiences.”
Music and Performance Highlights
On Saturday, March 22, the festival will host the Sounds of Freedom music festival, an open-air concert headlined by the talented Mandisi Dyantyis.
Other exciting performances will come from artists such as KEDINEO, Buhle Mbongwa, and Simmy.
This event is set to be an unforgettable celebration of music and culture in support of human rights.
The WeThePeople March
The festival will conclude on Sunday, March 23, with the WeThePeople Walk, an 8km march through the streets of Johannesburg.
This march is a chance for activists and community members to come together and champion their own causes in the spirit of human rights.
Last year, the march attracted over 4,000 participants, and this year, it’s expected to draw even more.
How to Attend the Festival
All events throughout the weekend are free to attend, but it’s important to book ahead to reserve your spot.
For events from March 20 to March 22, tickets can be booked on Quicket.
If you plan to join the WeThePeople Walk on March 23, be sure to reserve your place via Webtickets.