City initiatives start public drive titled "#ShapeDemocracy"
On August 26, 2025, the city of Essen will launch the "#DemocracyShape" campaign, a new initiative aimed at making democratic values such as respect, diversity, and cohesion visible both internally and externally.
The campaign, issued by the Press and Communications Office of the city portal, is an expansion of the city's work against right-wing extremism and racism, with a focus on the administration itself. Essen's city administration, as one of the largest employers in the city, plays an important role in upholding democratic values, promoting a diverse and open society, and fostering respectful coexistence.
Mayor Thomas Kufen emphasises the importance of this campaign, stating that "democracy is not a given and needs to be shaped and defended every day." He adds that diversity, in terms of origin, religion, culture, gender, sexual orientation, abilities, and more, is not a threat but an expression of these fundamental values.
The "#DemocracyShape" campaign offers new training opportunities, such as "Sexual and Gender Diversity (LGBTIQ+)" and "Dealing with Stereotypes and Unconscious Bias." It encourages the approximately 10,000 employees and managers to demonstrate their commitment to democracy and diversity in their daily work. Other municipal institutions are invited to participate in the campaign.
The city's new leadership guidelines explicitly name diversity as a strength, and the city portal is part of the "Charter of Diversity" and has initiated the "We are all Essen" initiative. The Communal Integration Center (KI) Essen presented the action concept "Together against Right-wing Extremism and Racism" in November 2023.
The campaign uses strong messages, postcards, posters, and digital media to highlight central values of the Basic Law such as freedom, equality, and human dignity. It is a clear signal against racism and right-wing extremism, positioning the city as a modern, engaged, and value-oriented employer.
The city portal participates in various actions, such as the annual Diversity Day and the "International Weeks against Racism." The action concept primarily addresses the city society, while the campaign focuses on the administration. Respect, diversity, and cohesion are the foundation for a strong, livable Essen.
The campaign will be communicated internally and externally via various channels, and it is hoped that it will inspire a wider conversation about the importance of democracy and diversity in our society.
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