THE CONSTITUTION HILL HUMAN RIGHTS FESTIVAL IS BACK!

CONSTITUTION HILL HUMAN RIGHTS PRECINCT

GATES OPEN @10AM 21-23 MARCH | FREE ENTRY & SAFE PARKING

The 7th edition of the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival is back, and it’s time to make some noise.

We’re living through a time of massive social and political upheaval—at home and across the world. The call to fight for justice has never been louder, and we’re answering. This year’s theme, “A Just and Inclusive South Africa,” is more than a vision—it’s a demand. And we’re not just talking about change—we’re making it happen.

For four days, 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 program featuring activism, dialogue, art, culture, exhibitions, books, poetry, film, a children’s festival, and live music. 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 organizations, 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.

Each year, the festival unites NGOs, social justice organizations, 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 organized social movements to open dialogues with fellow citizens and policymakers.

The fight for human rights isn’t just about words—it’s about action. That’s exactly what Activism Row is all about.

This is where social justice organizations, grassroots movements, and NGOs take center stage, turning ideas into impact. It’s a space designed for networking, collaboration, and mobilization, where festival-goers can meet the organizations leading the charge for change.

Throughout the festival, Activism Row will be a dynamic and interactive experience, featuring:

???? Workshops & Panels – Learn from activists and community leaders tackling the biggest human rights challenges of our time.

???? Live Dialogues & Debates – Engage with experts on urgent topics like gender justice, climate change, workers’ rights, and more.

???? Networking & Collaboration Hubs – Connect with organizations and individuals who are making a real difference.

???? Interactive Social Justice Exhibits – Explore powerful storytelling through art, photography, and digital activism.

From local grassroots groups to international human rights organizations, Activism Row is a space where festival-goers can do more than just listen—they can get involved, take action, and stand in solidarity with movements shaping the future of South Africa and beyond.

If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your passion for justice into action, this is your chance. Show up, speak out, and stand up for change.

Real change starts with real conversations. Be part of the discussion. Be part of the movement.

At the heart of the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival is The Social Forum—a space designed for bold, unfiltered discussions on the most pressing human rights issues of our time.

This is where activists, government representatives, academics, journalists, artists, and everyday people come together to debate, collaborate, and envision a just and inclusive future.

In a world where public discourse is often reduced to social media soundbites, The Social Forum offers something radical: a space for in-depth, meaningful dialogue that leads to real change.

???? No censorship. No fluff. Just real conversations that matter.

What to Expect:

????️ Thought-Provoking Panels & Debates – Covering critical topics like democracy, economic justice, gender equality, climate action, and social movements.

???? Workshops & Strategy Sessions – Offering practical tools to drive activism, policy change, and grassroots organizing.

????️ Live Audience Q&A – A chance for YOU to engage directly with thought leaders, challenge ideas, and contribute to the conversation.

The Social Forum isn’t about empty rhetoric—it’s about actionable solutions. It’s a space where difficult questions are asked, power is held accountable, and the future of South Africa is shaped by the people, for the people.

Art is more than just expression—it’s resistance. It’s revolution. It’s power.

At the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival, art isn’t just something you observe—it’s something you experience, feel, and take action on. Musicians, dancers, poets, visual artists, and performers from across South Africa and beyond will use their craft to challenge injustices, demand change, and inspire new ways of thinking about human rights.

Why does this matter?

Because art makes people feel. And when people feel, they act.

Whether it’s a protest song that gives a movement its anthem, a mural that tells a community’s untold history, or a play that challenges injustice—art is a catalyst for social change.

This is art with a purpose. This is resistance in motion. This is where creativity meets justice.

Don’t just watch—be part of the movement.

What’s on the lineup?

???? Live Performances – From spoken word poetry that will shake your soul to dance and theatre pieces that tell untold stories of struggle and triumph.

???? Visual Art & Exhibitions – Explore installations and street art that turn activism into something you can see, touch, and experience.

???? Music with a Message – From hip-hop to jazz to indigenous sounds, musicians will take the stage to amplify the voices of those fighting for justice.

???? Artivism in Action – Workshops, live painting, and interactive sessions that blend creativity with activism, giving festival-goers the tools to use art for change.

???? Cinema has the power to change minds, expose truths, and ignite movements. ????

At the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival Film Programme, storytelling becomes activism. Through a curated selection of powerful documentaries, hard-hitting dramas, and revolutionary indie films, we highlight human rights struggles, triumphs, and the people fighting for justice across the globe.

What to Expect:

????️ Screenings of Critically Acclaimed Films – Featuring local and international films tackling themes like social justice, gender equality, environmental rights, and democracy.

????️ Post-Screening Discussions & Panels – Engage in deep-dive conversations with filmmakers, activists, and human rights experts.

????️ Untold Stories & Alternative Perspectives – Films that challenge the mainstream narrative and shine a light on the voices often left unheard.

This is more than just watching a movie—it’s about seeing the world differently. It’s about understanding, questioning, and leaving the theatre ready to take action.

Film has the power to spark revolutions. Come and be inspired.

A Celebration of Local Creativity, Community & Commerce

The Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival isn’t just about activism and dialogue—it’s also about supporting local talent and fostering economic empowerment. The Curated Market is where festival-goers can discover, shop, and support some of South Africa’s most talented artisans, designers, and food vendors.

What to Expect:

???? Meet the Makers – This is more than just shopping; it’s an opportunity to connect with artisans, hear their stories, and take home a piece that carries true craftsmanship.

???? 40+ Local Artisans & Makers – Browse a handpicked selection of creatives specializing in handmade jewelry, ceramics, textiles, woodworking, leather goods, home decor, and more.

???? Delicious Food & Drinks – Enjoy a diverse selection of local eats, from traditional flavors to modern street food delights.

???? Creative & Conscious Commerce – Immerse yourself in a space that celebrates sustainability, entrepreneurship, and community-driven commerce.

By shopping at the Curated Market, you’re not just buying something beautiful—you’re investing in small businesses, empowering local creators, and strengthening South Africa’s creative economy.

???? Support local. Eat well. Shop consciously. Celebrate creativity.

Words have built revolutions. Books have shaped movements. The Human Rights Book Fair at the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival is where storytelling meets activism, and literature becomes a tool for justice.

This isn’t just about books—it’s about ideas, resistance, and the power of knowledge in the fight for human rights.

What’s Happening?

???? Meet the Authors – Engage with writers, activists, and thought leaders who use the written word to challenge injustice and inspire change.

???? Book Signings & Discussions – Connect with the minds behind powerful works on human rights, democracy, and social movements.

????️ Panel Talks & Debates – From freedom of speech to decolonizing literature, conversations that push boundaries.

???? Indie & Emerging Writers Showcase – Discover fresh voices tackling critical human rights issues through storytelling.

From biographies of freedom fighters to poetry collections about resistance, from investigative journalism exposing injustice to radical manifestos for change—this is a book fair for those who believe in the power of words to build a better world.

Come read, learn, debate, and leave inspired.

The future of human rights starts with the next generation.

At the Children’s Festival, we’re creating a space where young minds can learn about their rights, explore activism, and express themselves through storytelling, art, music, and play.

This is more than just entertainment—it’s about empowering kids to understand, question, and engage with the world around them in a way that’s fun, interactive, and inspiring.

What’s in Store?

???? Storytelling & Theatre – Bringing human rights to life through engaging tales and performances.

???? Arts & Crafts – Hands-on creative workshops to encourage self-expression and awareness.

???? Educational Games & Activities – Teaching young ones about their rights in a way that’s playful and meaningful.

???? Music & Movement – Dance, sing, and celebrate diversity and unity through rhythm and sound.

From learning about freedom, equality, and justice to understanding the importance of standing up for themselves and others, the Children’s Festival is a space where kids can dream big, think critically, and know that their voices matter.

Because children’s rights are human rights.

???? Live Performances – A powerful lineup of genre-defying artists and indigenous sounds to amplify the message of human rights.

Groove to the beat of change with live performances advocating for Equality and Freedom.

Music has always been a powerful tool for resistance, and at the Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival, live performances by renowned jazz artist Mandisi Dyantyis local DJs such as KEDINEO, Buhle Mbongwa and DJ Simmy will also grace the concert stage, the show will kick off at 18:00, at the Constitution Square. Take center stage to amplify the call for Justice, Equality, and Liberation.

From soulful melodies to high-energy beats, these performances are more than just entertainment—they are a soundtrack to activism, bringing people together through rhythm, lyrics, and raw emotion.

Expect an electrifying mix of genres and voices, each carrying a message of Resilience, Solidarity, and Freedom.

???? Let the music move you. Let the message inspire you. 

????????‍♂️✊????

Walk with purpose. Walk for justice. Walk for a better South Africa.

The We, The People Walk returns on March 23rd, 2025, inviting South Africans from all walks of life to come together in a powerful display of solidarity, remembrance, and commitment to constitutional values.

Inspired by the opening words of the South African Constitution’s preamble, this walk is more than a symbolic journey—it’s a living tribute to those who fought for democracy and a call to action for the future we still need to build.

Why Walk?

Because democracy isn’t something we inherit—it’s something we build, protect, and fight for every day. This walk is a moment to reflect on the past, acknowledge the present, and commit to shaping a just and inclusive future.

???? Your presence matters. Your voice matters. Your rights matter. ????Register now and take a stand—one step at a time.

What’s Happening?

???? Symbolic 8KM Walk – Join thousands of participants as we march through Johannesburg, reclaiming our streets with purpose.

???? Carry a Message, Make a Statement – Walkers are encouraged to choose a right from the Bill of Rights, create posters, and amplify its meaning through art and activism.

????️ Walk & Talk – Engage in powerful conversations along the route with activists, policymakers, and everyday changemakers.

???? Drumming activation – Experience an interactive drumming session honoring those who sacrificed for our freedom and amplifying the voices still fighting for justice.

????️ Explore the Curated Market – After the walk, support a selection of hand-picked Creative Makers showcasing locally made goods, delicious eats, and unique crafts.

????‍♂️????‍♀️ Join Us for the “We the People Walk” on March 23rd, 2025! ????‍♀️????‍♂️

???? Date: March 23rd, 2025
???? Time: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM
???? Location: Constitution Hill

???? Embrace Constitutionalism Through:
???? Symbolic 8km Walk
???? Carrying Messaging/Placards
???? Walk and Talk
???? Drumming activation 

✨ Reclaim & Recommit to Constitutional Values! ✨
???? Be Part of History! In 2016, Over 4000 People United!
???? We Invite You, Your Businesses, and Organizations to Stand with South Africans!
???? Let’s Walk Together for a Better Future! ????????

???? Registration Here!

???? Follow Us on Social Media: @ConstitutionHillSouthAfrica

#WeThePeopleWalk2025???? Your Presence Matters! See You There!

????️✊????

From a prison of oppression to a beacon of justice.

The Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival takes place on sacred ground—a site that once held political prisoners but now stands as a living testament to democracy, resilience, and social justice.

Once a place of confinement for many of South Africa’s greatest freedom fighters—including Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Albertina Sisulu, and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela—Constitution Hill has been transformed into a space of activism, dialogue, and cultural expression.

More Than a Venue—A Movement

Hosting the festival at Constitution Hill is intentional. It reminds us of where we’ve been and where we still need to go.

It’s a space of remembrance—honoring those who came before us.
It’s a space of resistance—challenging injustice in all its forms.
It’s a space of action—where ideas turn into movements, and words turn into change.

???? Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct, Johannesburg

????️ A place that holds our past, powers our present, and pushes us toward the future.

This is where history meets activism. Be part of it.