The Story of LHR: Making Rights Real Since 1979

In 2024, Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR) celebrates 45 years as one of South Africa's oldest and leading public interest law organisations. This short film honours our proud history and the people who made it. It also honours the people who continue to make the organisation what it is today.
LHR was founded in 1979 by a group of activist lawyers in response to the injustices perpetuated under apartheid. LHR began its mission to support individuals targeted by apartheid laws and advocate for justice. The organisation quickly became instrumental in challenging human rights abuses marking the start of its legacy as a powerful force for justice in South Africa.
Today, LHR has six strategic programmes staffed by specialist practitioners, each focusing on a specific aspect of human rights law. LHR employs a holistic approach to social justice and human rights enforcement that includes strategic litigation, advocacy, law reform, human rights education, and community mobilisation and support. We use the law as a positive instrument for change for our clients, and in the public interest, and help vulnerable, marginalised, and indigent people and communities.
Produced by:
Ursula Jade Nokuthula Khoza
Kate Stegeman
Edited by:
Ndumiso Ngcobo
Camera and sound by:
Gladwin Lucas
A special thanks to Red Pepper Pictures for providing filming equipment on a pro bono basis.