Youth use art to celebrate Human Rights Day.

The air was filled with the soulful sounds of drums and angelic voices when the Village Walk came alive with vibrant performances during a remarkable Human Rights Day celebration hosted by local arts organisation, Afropolitan, on Friday, March 21.

The celebration emphasized the powerful role that art plays in advocating for human rights.

Held at the vibrant Legacy Lounge on Ayliff Street, the evening provided an immersive experience, centred on the theme of creative freedom and the powerful influence of art in driving social change.

Sharing his thoughts on the event, Dr Thokozani Mhlambi, the founder of Afropolitan, said “if you look at history, artists have always been at the forefront of revolutions. We believe that as artists, human rights are our concern, and we highlight this through our creativity.”

The gathering wasn’t just a celebration of creativity but a call to action, a challenge to the global issues that continue to affect societies worldwide. These issues, such as gender-based violence, the lack of inclusion, ongoing conflicts, and the plight of migrants and refugees, were at the heart of the conversation. The artists who performed used their talents to address these critical topics, dissecting the role of art in today’s complex world.

Drawing from the words of renowned writer James Baldwin, the event emphasized the transformative power of art in advocating for human rights.

Baldwin once said, “Artists are the only people who know the truth about us,” and the performances that evening reflected this truth, highlighting the importance of freedom, justice, and equality.

Drawing from the words of renowned writer James Baldwin, the organizers underscored the transformative power of art.

“The role of art is to interpret the world, prompting the audience to reflect on their place in the world.

“Art should not simply affirm the world as it is but seek to re-create new possibilities through its expression. Even where human rights violations become normalised through governmental and corporate information control, artists must be able to see beyond the veil. They must ask the questions that the answers hide.”

As the evening unfolded, the energy in the venue was palpable. Poets captivated the audience with powerful, thought-provoking verses; singers filled the space with their melodic voices, creating an ethereal atmosphere; and drummers infused the night with a pulsating rhythm that resonated in the hearts of all present.

Traditional art forms took centre stage, not only highlighting the incredible skills of the young artists but also reinforcing their deep connection to their cultural heritage.

The event became a celebration of both the past and the future, as these young creators paid homage to their roots while forging ahead in their artistic journeys.

Afropolitan’s mission to empower youth through the creative arts in Newcastle was evident throughout the event. The artists, supported by the organisation, used their platforms not only to express their talents but also to advocate for the rights and freedoms of themselves and their communities.

The message was clear: art is not just about entertainment, but it is also a tool for social transformation.

In his closing remarks, Mhlambi emphasized the deeper purpose of art.

“Art should not merely act as entertainment; it must seek to inform and change perspectives. It is a vehicle for reflection, transformation, and social change.”

See photos below:

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