Call for Entries: African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest:

 

CALL FOR ENTRIES: AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS SPOKEN WORDS CONTEST:

 

DEADLINE: 30TH OCTOBER, 2023

The African Secretariat of the International Human Rights Art Festival is proud to announce the upcoming "African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest," a transformative platform that harnesses the power of spoken word artistry to address pressing human rights issues. The contest aims to bring together poets, artists, and activists from across the African continent to creatively express their thoughts and perspectives on critical matters such as social justice, climate change, women's empowerment, immigration, human trafficking, police brutality, and violence against women.

In an era where dialogue and advocacy hold the key to positive change, the contest seeks to amplify the voices of those often marginalized and unheard. Through the art of spoken word, participants will have the opportunity to shed light on the urgent need for social justice, a sustainable environment, and equal rights for women. The African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest will serve as a powerful catalyst for awareness, empathy, and action, encouraging participants to delve into these multifaceted issues and inspire others to do the same.

The African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest is set to unleash a wave of creative expression, advocacy, and solidarity across the African continent. Poets, spoken word artists, and all individuals passionate about human rights are encouraged to participate and contribute to this vital dialogue. Together, we can harness the power of spoken words to pave the way towards a more just, equitable, and compassionate future.

Submit a captivating 1-minute video where you passionately recite a unique and artistic poem crafted by you. This is your opportunity to shine and potentially be showcased on our vibrant social media platforms.

Demonstrate and elucidate the potent utilization of spoken language as a catalyst for the advancement and bolstering of human rights across the African continent. To merit rightful acknowledgment, submissions should inherently encapsulate the essence of human rights.

PRIZE(S)

·         First Prize - $100

·         Second Prize - $75

·         Third Prize - $50

·         Five honorable mentions

 

The selected works that emerge victorious will take center stage at the International Human Rights Art Festival, set to unfold between December 4th and 10th, 2023.

OTHER BENEFITS

· Award of Certificates of Participation to all Entrants.
· Award of Certificates of Excellence to only the shortlisted entrants.

GUIDELINES

1.      Upload a 1-minute video of yourself reciting your original poem of not less than 20MB.

2.      Entries are welcomed from anywhere in the world, but must address human rights issues in Africa

3.      Stories must have Human Rights at heart.

4.      Only one Video per entrant

5.      Your video can explore any of the following human rights themes: Freedom of Expression, Government Violations, Police Brutality, corruption, forced Eviction, terrorism, Gender Inequality, LGBT Rights, Child Labour, Child Marriage, Domestic Violence, violence and discrimination against women; child abuse; female genital mutilation, ethnic, regional, and religious discrimination, child trafficking etc.

6.      Record yourself in a quiet place (no music or background noise). Listen to your audio before you upload to make sure we can hear you well. No other persons are allowed in the video.

7.      Make sure the video is not shaky, the camera must be still while filming.

8.      Ensure your video is artistic, original, and creative. Videos must not have been previously published or used for a commercial purpose such as private sale or used in monetized platforms. All content to be used must be original, including any music.

9.      Do not add any graphics, text, or captions. If you need to perform your poem in sign language, you are welcome to do so.

10.  Film in landscape mode.

11.  We strongly encourage diverse, untraditional, and unheard voices to enter this competition

12.   The 1-minute Video must be a new and original piece of work. The Story must not have been published in any form or awarded previously.

13.  Deadline for submissions is 30th October, 2023

14.  Winners will be announced on the November 25th, 2023

15.  Any signs of plagiarism will disqualify the contestant.

16.  IHRAF reserves the right to withdraw and reclaim the financial value of the contest if it is discovered that a Spoken Word Artist has fabricated any information in their submission. 

17.  Organizers’ decision is final

18.  All entrants agree to offer IHRAF first world rights, with the right to upload selected videos on its media and streaming platforms.

19.  All entries must be submitted to: ihrafafrica@ihraf.org

20.  Title of your mail should be addressed as “AFRICAN HUMAN SPOKEN WORDS CONTEST”

21.  Entrants are advised to send the following information alongside their entries

22.  Name, Age, Gender, Country, Address, Phone Number, Where you heard about the Contest, Short Profile about yourself, Name of school or university if any

23.  It is your responsibility to ensure that your submission is eligible for the Contest. By entering your work for the Contest you are confirming to us that the work that you are submitting is your own original work, and that you have read and agreed to the Conditions of Entry of the Contest.  

24.  We will write to everyone who entered for the Contest and inform them of the outcome of their application once the judging process has concluded. 

 African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest is an initiative of the International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF), USA aimed at promoting and supporting the realization of human rights in Africa.

 

For more enquiries contact: Wole Adedoyin +2348072673852 (woleadedoyin@gmail.com)

 

African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest: IHRAF Calls For Entries

 

AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS SPOKEN WORDS CONTEST: IHRAF CALLS FOR ENTRIES

 

The African Secretariat of the International Human Rights Art Festival proudly announces the launch of the "African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest." This innovative contest aims to provide a platform for poets, artists, and activists across the African continent to creatively express their perspectives on critical human rights issues. With a deadline set for October 30th, 2023, this contest calls upon all passionate advocates of social justice, environmental sustainability, and gender equality to make their voices heard.

In a statement by the Director of IHRAF in Africa, Wole Adedoyin said the African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest serves as an essential opportunity for marginalized voices to rise and be heard. By channeling the power of spoken word, participants are invited to explore and confront pressing concerns such as climate change, immigration, police brutality, gender inequality, and more. This artistic initiative seeks to engage individuals in meaningful dialogue and encourage positive change through creative expression.

In the spirit of fostering a more just and equitable society, the contest offers attractive prizes for outstanding contributions. The first-place winner will be awarded $100, the second-place winner will receive $75, and the third-place winner will be granted $50. Additionally, five honorable mentions will be acknowledged for their exceptional submissions.

Selected entries that rise above the rest will also take center stage at the esteemed International Human Rights Art Festival, scheduled to take place from December 4th to 10th, 2023. These thought-provoking pieces will be showcased, celebrating the impactful role of spoken word in advocating for human rights and fostering positive change.

In alignment with its commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue, the contest invites entries from individuals worldwide, provided that their submissions address human rights issues specific to Africa. Entries are expected to reflect the intrinsic values of human rights, offering innovative perspectives on themes such as government violations, gender inequality, terrorism, and more.

Participation in the contest is as simple as submitting a captivating 1-minute video showcasing an original spoken word poem. Entrants are encouraged to create unique pieces that delve into their chosen human rights theme while adhering to contest guidelines. These include filming in a quiet environment, ensuring stable camera work, and submitting original, previously unpublished content.

The African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest underscores its commitment to nurturing emerging talents by awarding Certificates of Participation to all entrants, and Certificates of Excellence to shortlisted participants. Furthermore, the contest invites diverse, untraditional, and unheard voices to join the conversation and contribute their unique perspectives.

Entries can be submitted via email to ihrafafrica@ihraf.org, with the subject line "AFRICAN HUMAN SPOKEN WORDS CONTEST." Alongside the 1-minute video, entrants are requested to provide their name, age, gender, country, address, phone number, and a brief profile. It is essential to confirm the originality of submitted work and accept the Conditions of Entry as outlined by IHRAF.

For more information and inquiries, interested parties can contact: Wole Adedoyin at +2348072673852 or woleadedoyin@gmail.com.

The African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest is an initiative of the International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF), USA, dedicated to amplifying voices, sparking dialogue, and promoting the realization of human rights across the African continent.

 

IHRAF @ 5: Empowering African Writers and Artists to Champion Human Rights Through Art

 

IHRAF @ 5: EMPOWERING AFRICAN WRITERS AND ARTISTS TO CHAMPION HUMAN RIGHTS THROUGH ART

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) marks a significant milestone this year as it celebrates its fifth anniversary. Founded by visionary artist Tom Block, IHRAF has emerged as a powerful catalyst for change in the artistic and literary realms across Africa. Through its various initiatives, IHRAF has nurtured, published, and showcased the talents of numerous African writers and artists, fostering a sense of community and a platform for expression.

At the heart of IHRAF's impact is IHRAF Publishes, a platform that has tirelessly championed African voices. Countless African writers have found their works published and shared with a global audience, amplifying diverse narratives and shedding light on the rich cultural tapestry of the continent.

A defining moment for IHRAF came in 2020 when it collaborated with the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) to organize the END SARS National Poetry Competition. This innovative contest was a response to the urgent need to address police brutality and assault through the arts. The synergy between IHRAF and SYNW resulted in the publication of "END SARS Rhythms," an anthology of poems capturing the essence of the protest and its impact.

Building on this success, IHRAF continued to champion human rights issues through the African Human Rights Essay Competition. The subsequent anthology, "The Malady and the Remedy," delved into critical topics, providing a platform for thought-provoking discussions on human rights challenges.

Diversity of expression has been a hallmark of IHRAF's initiatives. The African Human Rights Playwriting Competition, for instance, showcased the innovative capacity of African playwrights to address social issues creatively. Winners of this competition found their works celebrated and shared, contributing to a richer discourse on human rights.

The African Human Rights Short Story Competition was another feather in IHRAF's cap, uncovering narratives that might otherwise have remained untold. These stories were showcased on IHRAF's website, reaching a global audience and fostering greater understanding.

The ongoing African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest stands as a testament to IHRAF's commitment to promoting dynamic and engaging forms of expression. Exceptional works from this contest will take center stage at the upcoming 2023 International Human Rights Art Festival, set to unfold in New York.

Over the course of its journey, IHRAF has showcased the vibrant creativity of African writers through the publication of five impactful anthologies. These anthologies stand as a testament to IHRAF's commitment to amplifying diverse voices and promoting human rights through the arts. The anthology titles include: "END SARS Rhythms," "Get Consent," "The Malady and the Remedy," "Voices of Africa: A Call for Freedom," and "From Africa With Love: Voices of A Creative Continent."

Beyond the publication of anthologies, IHRAF has taken a proactive role in nurturing artistic growth. The organization's innovative initiative, the IHRAF BOOK CLUB, has become a cornerstone of this effort. Through Monthly Book Readings and engaging workshops, IHRAF through its African Secretariat is fostering a community of readers and learners, providing a space for rich discussions and the exploration of thought-provoking literature.

Through these projects, IHRAF has provided indispensable assistance to African writers and artists. Additionally, the IHRAF Interview Series has given audiences a peek into the creative minds behind these endeavors, featuring insightful discussions with more than 150 writers and artists spanning the breadth of the African continent.

As IHRAF enters its fifth year, it does so with a legacy of impact that reverberates throughout the African arts and human rights communities. The organization's dedication to amplifying marginalized voices and promoting human rights through art stands as an inspiration, fostering a future where artistic expression remains a powerful vehicle for change.

IHRAF Rebrands As IHRAM

 

IHRAF REBRANDS AS IHRAM

 

Celebrating 5 Years of Advocacy Through Art

 

By Wole Adedoyin

 

The International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) has officially rebranded itself as the International Human Rights Art Movement (IHRAM) on the occasion of its 5th year anniversary. This monumental change reflects the organization's evolution and expanded focus, solidifying its commitment to advocating for human rights through the power of art.

 

In an inspiring move, the International Human Rights Art Movement aims to amplify its impact and reach as it continues its noble journey of using art as a vehicle for social change. The rebranding reflects the organization's dedication to fostering a global movement that harnesses the creative expression of artists to shine a light on human rights issues worldwide.

 

As part of the rebranding process, the organization has introduced a fresh and dynamic logo that symbolizes its renewed vigor and purpose. This emblem encapsulates the essence of the International Human Rights Art Movement's mission - to promote awareness, understanding, and action surrounding human rights through various art forms.

 

Visitors to the newly revamped website will notice a transformation in the nomenclature, with all references to IHRAF now replaced by IHRAM. This strategic adjustment is not only symbolic but also practical, allowing the movement to resonate more deeply with its supporters while maintaining a clear identity.

 

"The decision to rebrand as the International Human Rights Art Movement marks a significant milestone in our journey. Over the past five years, we have witnessed the power of art in raising awareness and effecting change. This evolution reflects our growing commitment to the cause and our determination to foster a global movement that empowers artists to become advocates for human rights," said Tom Block, Founder and Executive Director of the International Human Rights Art Movement.

 

As the International Human Rights Art Movement paves the way for the next phase of its impactful journey, it invites supporters, artists, and change-makers from around the world to join hands in this endeavor. Through collaborative efforts, art will continue to serve as a potent catalyst for social progress and human rights advocacy.