Human Rights Festival: Art and activism in Joburg this long weekend

The Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival delivers a free music and film festival, and a march through Joburg. Here are all the details.

Thousands are expected to participate in this year's Human Rights Festival at Constitution Hill. Image via the Human Rights Festival

The Human Rights Festival comes to Constitution Hill in Johannesburg this weekend. The 7th edition of the acclaimed festival takes place from 20-23 March, with Mandisi Dyantyis and Mmabatho Montsho amongst the acclaimed artists.

Celebrating Human Rights Day

The Human Rights Festival takes place under the theme “A Just and Inclusive South Africa”. The event, planned around the Human Rights Day long weekend, aims to commemorate the liberation heroes who lost their lives in the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre and to promote awareness of human rights.

“In this safe and special space, people will be able to discuss challenges facing our country and the world, and how best we, the people of South Africa, can coordinate our efforts to bring about lasting and consequential change based on social justice and human rights,” said Acting CEO Siyabonga Hlongwane in a statement.

The programme includes debates, dialogues and workshops on:

The impact of Trump’s administration on LGBTIQ+ communities in the Global South
Youth-led climate justice movements
Rest and wellness as acts of revolution
The legacy of Winne Mandela

The Human Rights Festival brings together many groups and organisations, with key sponsors being the Gender Based Violence Fund and the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency.

Mandisi Dyantyis and Mmabatho Montsho lead arts programme

The Human Rights Festival provides a platform to celebrate local art and culture. The programme kicks off on 21 March with a drumming session. An impressive 1000 drums will symbolise the festival’s commitment to uplifting marginalised voices.

For two days, festival-goers can enjoy a selection of film screenings on the topic of human rights. The programme has been curated by award-winning filmmaker and former actress Mmabatho Montsho. Highlights include a focus on children’s rights and a workshop on storytelling for social change.

“The 2025 Human Rights Film Festival promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring event, and we look forward to sharing it with audiences,” said Montsho.

On Saturday 22 March, the Human Rights Festival programme will present the Sounds of Freedom Music Festival. The open-air concert will be headlined by acclaimed jazz artist Mandisi Dyantyis. Other stars performing include KEDINEO, Buhle Mbongwa and Simmy.

Thousands expected for WeThePeople march

On Sunday, 23 March, the Human Rights Festival concludes with the WeThePeople Walk, an 8km march through Johannesburg. The event, which has attracted as many as 4000 people in previous years, brings together activists and community members to champion their own various causes in the spirit of human rights.

How to attend the Human Rights Festival

All events are free throughout the weekend. However, you do have to book ahead online. For events on 20-22 March, book a ticket on Quicket. To attend the WeThePeople Walk on Sunday 23 March, reserve your spot on Webtickets.