Human rights help protect human rights and prevent violations in SA. If you’re looking for a human rights center or organisation to join or support, here are a few.

People Against Suffering, Oppression and Poverty (PASSOP)

PASSOP is a community-based, non-profit human rights organisation that protects and fights for the rights of asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrants in South Africa. They also advocate on behalf of LGBTQIA refugees and confront homophobia, transphobia, and xenophobia throughout SA. You can learn more about them here.

Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR)

Lawyers for Human Rights is an organisation which advocates for human rights and acts as constitutional watchdog. They also aim to develop human rights internationally and assist in improving policies on rights for the disadvantaged.

LHR’s primary work is providing free legal services to both non-national and South African victims of human rights abuse. You can read more about them here.

Black Sash

Black Sash is a non-profit organisation that focuses on giving vulnerable people social security and protection, and reducing poverty and inequality. You can read more about them here.

Dullah Omah Institute for Constitutional Law, Governance, & Human Rights

This institute focuses on issues like children’s rights, criminal justice reform, and women’s rights. Their work includes publishing articles, books and reports, as well as hosting workshops and conferences. They currently operate under the University of the Western Cape’s Faculty of Law. You can read more about them here.

The South African Red Cross Society (SARCS)

SARCS is part of the world’s largest humanitarian movement, and supports people affected by natural disaster and conflict. They provide emergency relief for natural disasters, develop new social welfare initiatives, care for refugees and the vulnerable in society. You can read more about them here.

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international charitable organisation. They help with budgeting advice, food and clothing assistance, life skills programs and other comfort and support. You can learn more about them here.

There are many ways to commemorate Human Rights Day. One way to do so is by supporting a human rights center/organisation, joining or volunteering for them, following their page, or sharing their work on your social media platforms.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).