Sophiatown to host Human Rights Day screening of Dulcie September assassination documentary
Trevor Huddleston Memorial Centre invites the public to a free event featuring an award-winning film, panel discussion, and live jazz to reflect on apartheid-era justice and South Africa’s democratic journey.
The Trevor Huddleston Memorial Centre (THMC) in Sophiatown will commemorate Human Rights Day 2026 with a public screening of the award-winning documentary Murder in Paris: The Assassination of Dulcie September.
Produced and directed by Enver Samuel, the film won Best South African Documentary at the 2021 Durban International Film Festival and earned the filmmaker a Human Rights Award for his contribution to preserving history.
Read more: On this day in history: ANCs Dulcie September was assassinated in Paris
The event takes place on March 21 at the centre in Sophiatown, starting at 14:30. It will combine the screening with a moderated panel discussion featuring civil society voices and youth perspectives, plus a live jazz performance paying tribute to Sophiatown’s historic role as a hub of artistic resistance and intellectual activism during apartheid.
Dulcie September served as the African National Congress’s chief representative in France. She was assassinated in Paris on March 29, 1988, while investigating apartheid-era arms deals. Her killing sent shockwaves around the world, yet key questions remain unanswered almost four decades later. For many South Africans, the case symbolises the unfinished work of justice in the democratic era.
The programme invites reflection on the gains and limitations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission process, the importance of accountability in strengthening democracy, and the responsibility of current generations to uphold constitutional values.
Also read: The importance of recognising our fallen heroes
Entry is free and open to community members, students, activists, faith leaders, and the media. RSVP is essential via a call to 083 550 7130 or an email to thmcentre@mweb.co.za.
Patrons for the event are former President Kgalema Motlanthe, Honourable Sophia du Bruyn, Archbishop Thabo Makgoba, Emeritus Archbishop Reverend Walter Paul Khotso Makhulu, Ambassador Abdul Minty, and Reverend Mpho Tutu.
A documentary trailer is available at here.
The Trevor Huddleston CR Memorial Centre is at 71 Toby Street, Sophiatown, Johannesburg.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
