From silent vigils against the disenfranchisement of Coloured voters, to the establishment of nationwide advice offices that provided legal lifelines to Black South Africans, to campaigns against deaths in detention, child imprisonment, unjust laws, and state capture of the grant payment cycle, Black Sash has remained steadfast in its mission.
The exhibition showcases Black Sash’s journey — from apartheid resistance to post-1994 democracy-building, leading the call for a Basic Income Grant to address inequality, and the landmark Hands Off Our Grants campaign. Today, Black Sash continues its legacy to ensure dignity and social protection for all through advocacy, rights-based education, community-based monitoring, and a national helpline. The exhibition features rare archival material, original protest artefacts, and the striking photography of Gille de Vlieg. (A renowned photographer and anti-apartheid activist, De Vlieg, was a member of the Black Sash and one of the few women members of the Afrapix photography collective).
This exhibition is both a tribute, a reflection, and a reminder of our responsibility to each other, and to be the “annoying conscience” to effect meaningful change. It honours the courage of past and present activists and invites a new generation to stand for justice in the face of ongoing inequality.
Artist Biography
Black Sash was founded in Johannesburg in 1955 by a group of white women opposing the removal of enfranchised coloured people from the voters’ roll. Originally named the Women’s Defence of the Constitution League, the organisation became known in the press as “the Black Sash” because of the distinctive black sashes worn at protests to symbolise mourning for the South African Constitution. Black Sash members used their privileged position in society to highlight injustice. It was a powerful anti-apartheid organisation for forty years. In 1995, the membership base of the organisation transitioned to become a non-governmental organisation, espousing the core values of its founders: non-violence, human rights and justice.
This year Black Sash celebrates its platinum jubilee. For 70 years Black Sash has defended the rule of law and the values of an independent constitutional democracy where human rights are real. To mark this milestone, the Black Sash Exhibit showcases 70 years of fighting for an anti-racist, capable state that guarantees human rights and social protection for everyone in South Africa.
Credits
Special Thanks:
University of Cape Town – Special Collections
The private collections of former members
Zapiro
The Trustees and Staff of Black Sash
The National Arts Festival
The Homecoming Centre
Gille de Vlieg
Curatorial Team:
Amanda Rinquest and Gail Kirchmann
- Daily during the Festival 09:00 to 17:00
-
Daily entry to the exhibitions is free. The scheduled walkabouts have a minimal cost and booking is essential.
