The Black Human Rights Tradition
Johannesburg, South Africa
- Dates – August 2–21, 2027
- Max Enrollment – 30
- Taught In – English
- Prerequisites – No
- Academic Area – African American and African Studies
Program Overview
Come explore Johannesburg, one of Africa’s most vibrant and beautiful cities, as a classroom for learning about human rights on the continent. This immersive program examines apartheid, anti-apartheid activism, transitional justice and South Africa’s post-apartheid reconstruction. In “Egoli,” the city of gold, you will see how the Black Human Rights Tradition helped shape South Africa’s constitution, laws and ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive society. You will engage with academics, activists and community leaders through conversations, visits and shared experiences, and explore sites such as Constitution Hill, the Union Buildings, the Apartheid Museum, Sophiatown, and Kruger National Park. Along the way, you will experience Johannesburg’s food, music, art and warm hospitality while gaining insight into global struggles against racism and inequality.
Program Contacts
- Program Coordinator – Emeline Diolot-Bobalik
- Instructor – Shingirai Lenon Taodzera
Program Highlights
- Explore human rights in Africa while studying in one of the continent's most cosmopolitan cities.
- Connect with South African academics, human rights activists and undergraduate and graduate students.
- Visit historic landmarks, including the former homes of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu on Vilakazi Street in Soweto.
- Experience the world-renowned Kruger National Park and encounter South Africa's iconic wildlife.
- Examine how South Africa continues to address socio-economic, political and cultural issues in the post-apartheid era.