Anti-discrimination: “Boundary violations are experienced individually”

Ms. van Riesen, is it possible to completely eliminate discrimination?

No, despite all efforts, it is unfortunately hardly achievable. At the same time, this circumstance shows how important it is to keep talking about different forms of discrimination. However, our goal is to make Leuphana inclusive and free of discrimination. Anti-discrimination work helps to highlight social inequalities, stereotypes, and experiences of discrimination and to take them seriously.

What specific services do you offer to help?

We have set up various portals and counseling services. On the Equal Opportunities Office's website, university members can find information about what discrimination is, what support is available, and who to contact in cases of anti-Semitic discrimination, sexual harassment, or for compensation for disadvantages due to chronic illness. In addition, all university members have access to the anti-discrimination counseling services offered by diversu e.V. This enables us to address a wide range of problem areas.

So modern anti-discrimination work means more than just counseling in individual cases?

Exactly. We also work on awareness-raising and training programs and provide support in adapting guidelines, for example in the field of study. Practical measures also play a role: quiet rooms for people with chronic or mental illnesses, breastfeeding rooms, or places of retreat during large events.

There are more and more awareness teams out there. Why are they important?

Because modern anti-discrimination work takes a very broad view of inclusion. We want to include everyone. Boundary violations and well-being are experienced very individually. Awareness teams are there to ensure that as many people as possible feel welcome at events. In the past, some people simply withdrew when they felt uncomfortable or excluded. Awareness programs provide contact persons and retreat areas so that participation remains possible. This does not always have to be about pronounced boundary violations. Inclusion starts much earlier.

What role does the issue of anti-Semitism play at the university?

Preventing anti-Semitism is an important part of anti-discrimination work. The university participates in state-wide networks that promote exchange between universities. At the same time, the topic is also addressed in teaching and research, for example through a new state-wide certificate program and events on Jewish life and remembrance culture. It is important to make anti-Semitism visible as a distinct form of discrimination and to deal with it sensitively.

The ZABIN certificate (“Anti-Semitism-Critical Education in Lower Saxony in the Context of Schools”) is a new state-wide program in Lower Saxony in which Leuphana is also participating. “The topic of anti-Semitism is playing an increasingly important role, especially in teacher training, due to the global political situation,” says Dr. Julia Oppermann. She offers the seminar “Anti-Semitism in Schools” in the teaching subject of politics. Students of all teaching subjects can attend the course in the coming winter semester as part of ZABIN. Other universities in Lower Saxony also offer courses that can be attended across universities and in a hybrid format.

The aim of the program is to raise awareness of anti-Semitism. Various forms are covered: historically and religiously influenced anti-Judaism, Israel-related anti-Semitism, and right-wing extremist anti-Semitism combined with the relativization of the Shoah. “But we also talk about classic conspiracy narratives, such as the idea of Jewish elites with global power,” says Julia Oppermann.

Her seminar is practice-oriented: “We develop action strategies for schools and classrooms: What do I do when I encounter anti-Semitism?” The decisive factor here is attitude: anti-Semitism will not be tolerated. At the same time, it is important to classify actions: Where do the statements come from? How do they affect those concerned? How do I win over so-called bystanders?

Cooperation among colleagues is also crucial. Anti-Semitism should not be dealt with alone, because consultation and exchange strengthen teachers in dealing with difficult situations. A common attitude within the school is considered the basis for successful action: “A single person would burn out too quickly,” explains Julia Oppermann.