A combination of an information hub, a performance stage, a play area, a space for reflection and a think tank, the DiversityParcours® exhibition – which has already been hosted by many well-known companies – opened up new perspectives on opportunities, challenges and ways to overcome barriers, whilst drawing attention to a topic of great social and political relevance. At five stations, visitors were able to ‘test’ their tendency to stereotype, highlight personal aspects of diversity, make the ‘sound’ of their team audible, delve into the world of figures, data and facts on diversity, and experiment in the DiversityLab.
Numerous stimulating conversations, spontaneous discussion sessions and guided, moderated sessions revealed that engaging with diversity provides tangible impetus for study, teaching and collaboration. Diversity became more visible and new perspectives on coexistence were opened up. Through this special format, the university underlines its responsibility for democratic participation and equal opportunities.
Prof. Dr Tatiana Zimenkova, Vice-President for International Affairs and Diversity, emphasises: “Diversity and participation are not merely ‘nice-to-have’ areas. The DiversityParcours® is a necessary intervention against ignorance, exclusion and the creeping normalisation of discrimination in today’s societies.” She emphasises how important sensitivity to diversity and equitable participation are as cornerstones of safeguarding democracy – without them, a democratic institution loses its credibility, its excellence and, ultimately, its future. As Vice-President, she states clearly: “We are not investing in symbolism, but in our university’s stance, capacity for action and resilience against any form of anti-democratic tendencies.”
However, the university does not wish to stop at the DiversityParcours®. It plans to further embed the insights gained in the coming semesters – through workshops, networking opportunities and concrete measures to ensure fair access and active participation. In addition, the exhibition on fundamental rights, ‘More than just words’, will take place from 7 to 29 May on the Kleve campus (Building 4, 2nd floor), and is also open to the public.
Background
Alongside many other German universities, Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences (HSRW) is taking a stand for an open, supportive and free academic and university culture by backing the nationwide campaign ‘Hochschulen zeigen Haltung’ (Universities Take a Stand). A diverse programme of events will be offered at both university campuses in Kamp-Lintfort and Kleve during the summer term.
As part of the nationwide campaign ‘Universities Take a Stand’, universities and their members are called upon to champion a democratic, diverse and free higher education landscape. It is only where research and teaching can take place independently of political pressure, ideological dictates or individual economic interests that insights emerge which critically scrutinise social developments and enable well-informed decisions. At the same time, academia relies on democratic conditions: freedom of expression, open discourse and the protection of minority viewpoints. Together, democracy and academia are fundamental components of an open, enlightened society.
