Art for Change: Human Rights Day through the lens of creativity

Tomorrow, March 21st, marks the 30-year anniversary of South Africa's ongoing transition to a more equal society for all. 

In South Africa, Human Rights Day is historically linked with 21 March 1960, and the events of the Sharpeville Massacre. On that day, 69 people died and 180 were wounded when police fired on a peaceful crowd that had gathered in protest against the Pass laws.

Every year, Human Rights Day reminds us of the universal rights that belong to all individuals, regardless of race, religion, gender, or creed. It's a day to reflect on progress made and recognise the ongoing struggles for equality and justice worldwide. 


Image Source: blog10101.art

One powerful way people come together to celebrate and advocate for human rights is through the lens of creativity. Art, in its various forms, has long been recognised as a catalyst for social change, serving as a voice for the voiceless and a tool for activism.

Art as a catalyst for social change 

Art has the remarkable ability to inspire, provoke, and unite people around common causes. Whether through painting, literature, music, or digital mediums, artists can illuminate human rights issues and spark conversations that lead to action. 



Only a select category of individuals in the world becomes a household name. The world-renowned symbol of justice, peace and perseverance, Nelson Mandela, became the first black president of the state of South Africa. Madiba dedicated his entire life against the brutal, oppressive and inhumane Apartheid regime that served to deny its citizens every basic human right. 

Artists from around the world have come together to create works that honour Mandela's life, values, and vision for a better world. These artistic expressions take many forms, ranging from murals and street art to music, spoken word performances, theatre, and dance.

This mural pictured above expresses the solidarity of the Irish Republicans with the liberation of Blacks in South Africa. The mural quotes Mandela: "In my country, we go to prison first and then become President."

Literature: A voice for the voiceless



Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela, 1994

"Long Walk to Freedom", world-renowned autobiography by Nelson Mandela, is a captivating lifelong account and testimony that chronicles his extraordinary life, from his early years in a rural village to his role as a prominent anti-apartheid activist and eventually, the first black president of South Africa.

The autobiography serves as a compelling voice for the voiceless, shedding light on the systemic discrimination faced by black South Africans under apartheid. Mandela's unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and reconciliation resonates throughout the narrative, inspiring generations to come.

Visual arts: Painting a portrait of equality 

Visual artists use their talents to create powerful imagery that captures the essence of human rights struggles and triumphs. Artists can evoke emotion and provoke thought through paintings, sculptures, or photography. 

'The Killing of Hector Pieterson' is an iconic photograph captured by Sam Nzima during the 1976 Soweto Uprising and has become a symbol of resistance and the struggle for human rights in South Africa. This photograph captures Hector Pieterson and a fellow student attempting to assist Hector from the desolation of impending death, highlighting the brutality of the apartheid regime.


Photographer Sam Nzima holds an image capturing the Sharpeville Massacre
by Paul Weinburg for the Daily Maverick 

Music: Harmony for human rights 

Music uniquely transcends language and culture, serving as a universal language of unity and solidarity. Musicians worldwide use their songs to advocate for human rights, address social issues, and inspire change. From protest anthems to songs of hope and resilience, music can unite people and amplify the voices of those fighting for justice.

'Stimela', The Coal Train, by musician Hugh Masekela, is a powerful and timeless song that reflects the exploitation of mine workers and the impact of economic inequality in South Africa. This piece touches on the themes of labour rights and social justice.

Digital art: Advocating for change


Image Source: tiffanytrenda.com

In today's digital age, artists are harnessing the power of technology to create innovative works of art that engage audiences in new and immersive ways. Digital art allows artists to explore complex human rights issues through interactive installations, virtual reality experiences, and multimedia presentations. By leveraging digital platforms, artists can reach a global audience and spark conversations about human rights in the digital age.

Artist Tiffany Trenda's "Invisible Lines" project is an interactive multimedia installation that explores the concept of personal boundaries and the impact of surveillance on individual freedom.

Viewers are invited to interact with digital representations of themselves and others within the installation space using motion-sensing technology and augmented reality. As participants move, their digital avatars react and respond, blurring the lines between physical and digital realities.

Human Rights Day Festival


Image Source: travelbeginsat40.com

Events like the Human Rights Day Festival provide an invaluable opportunity for artists and activists to come together, share ideas, and inspire action. Through exhibitions, performances, and interactive workshops, this event creates space for dialogue, reflection, and collaboration. 

By showcasing the power of art to drive social change, these exhibitions empower individuals to become agents of change not only on a national level but, more importantly, within their communities.

Artists continue to inspire hope, ignite passion, and drive positive change in the world. Human Rights Day in South Africa has become more than just a reflection on our past; it is more about how we, as people, can harness the power of creativity to build a future where human rights are upheld, respected, and protected for generations to come.

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