NHC LEADS HUMAN RIGHTS DIALOGUE AT CONSTITUTION HILL, HIGHLIGHTING LAND JUSTICE AND MANDELA’S LEGACY
As part of the Human Rights Month commemoration, the National Heritage Council (NHC), through the Resistance & Liberation Heritage Programme, actively participated in the Human Rights Festival hosted by Constitution Hill from March 20 to 23, 2025. This year’s festival, themed “A Just and Inclusive South Africa”, provided a platform for communities, social movements, and policymakers to engage in meaningful discussions, exhibitions, and artistic expressions related to human rights.
NHC proudly collaborated with Constitution Hill, a newly inscribed UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other key partners like the Nelson Mandela Foundation. This partnership highlights the collective commitment to preserving South Africa’s liberation history while championing human rights initiatives.
One of the festival’s key highlights was the NHC-led dialogue, which was centred around the theme of Advancing Human Rights Through Heritage & Nelson Mandela Legacy’s Sites. The dialogue explored the historical and contemporary significance of human dignity in the broader struggle for equality and justice in South Africa.
The dialogue was facilitated by NHC Council member Ms. Khwezi Kunene, with a distinguished panel of experts, including Justice Steven Arnold Majiedt, Judge of the Constitutional Court of South Africa, Advocate Thabo Seneke, and Dr. Marjorie Jobson the National Director of the Khulumani Support Group.
During the dialogue, NHC Chairperson Mr Tau Masemola welcomed attendees with a powerful speech, emphasizing the historical impact of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre, a pivotal moment in the fight against apartheid.
“It registered the evil deeds of the apartheid system that stripped people of their basic human rights, forcing them to carry passbooks as foreigners in their land. The heroic efforts of those who perished on that fateful day played a major role in delivering democracy to our nation, abolishing racial discrimination, and restoring dignity,” said Masemola.
As the discussion continued, Judge Majiedt emphasized that South Africa’s Constitution is not merely an American-inspired document, but a miraculous achievement born out of the country’s struggle against colonialism and apartheid. He highlighted the judiciary’s role in upholding the Constitution while stressing that the real responsibility lies with the executive and legislature to ensure its implementation.
“True freedom is not just about liberation but about preserving our history and ensuring the dignity and rights of others. As 82% of South Africans affirm their belief in democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, we must honour that commitment by safeguarding our heritage and the values that define our nation, ” Judge Majiedt expressed.
During the discussion, Advocate Thabo Seneke indicated that Civil society organizations such as the Legal Resources Centre and the Socio-Economic Rights Institute remain at the forefront of addressing land and constitutional violations in South Africa. He further emphasized that these organizations ensure that marginalized communities continue to have a voice in legal battles that shape their future.
“The fight for land is at the heart of our struggle for justice. Nelson Mandela’s legacy teaches us that human rights and dignity cannot be separated from land ownership and economic inclusion, “said Advocate Seneke.
Dr. Marjorie, the National Director of Khulumani Support Group, brought insights from her extensive work in human rights and transitional justice. As an active supporter of peacebuilding initiatives under the South African Women in Dialogue (SAWID), she emphasized the importance of inclusive discussions in shaping a just and equitable society.
The NHC’s participation in the Human Rights Festival shows the ongoing need to reflect on South Africa’s history while shaping a future rooted in justice and inclusivity. As South Africa continues its journey toward social and economic justice, platforms like these remain essential to foster conversations, strengthen constitutionalism, and ensure that the sacrifices of the past continue to shape the future of the country.