Diversity price 2025

The 'Dialogue of Religions' working group has been committed to a peaceful, respectful and diverse coexistence of religious communities in Aachen for 20 years.

Since its foundation in 2005, the working group has been connecting different religious communities, promoting exchange and building bridges of understanding. Projects such as the interfaith calendar and the Peace Meal of Religions have become an integral part of Aachen's city life.

Through its many years of commitment, the working group strengthens social cohesion and is therefore a deserving winner of the award.

"Mr. Gahssim is tirelessly committed to a society in which origin, religious background, gender or sexual orientation play no role - in which every person is treated with respect and appreciation.
He exemplifies diversity and fights for an open, tolerant community."

Special achievements
"As co-founder of the artistic collective 'Rebell Comedy', Mr. Gahssim uses creative and humorous ways to break down social taboos and bring people together. His commitment makes a significant contribution to breaking down prejudices and promoting understanding."

Mr. Stephan Kirschbaum and Mr. Christian Manz as well as Ms. Gönül Fazlaoglu from the Aachen support office Kirschbaum und Manz, ABB for short.

The ABB is an outpatient service that supports people with mental or intellectual disabilities and addictions. It was founded in 2004 by Mr. Kirschbaum and Mr. Manz, who put their heart and soul into closing the care gap for people with special needs in Aachen and the surrounding area.

Her commitment to non-German-speaking people, especially Turkish-speaking clients, is particularly noteworthy. This "Turkey project" began in 2009 with the appointment of Ms. Gönül Fazlaoglu, who continues to drive this important work forward with great passion and commitment to this day.

Under the leadership of the two founders and with great commitment from Ms. Fazlaoglu, the ABB has developed into a lively, colourful place of diversity - a real role model for successful integration and intercultural work."

"Since the 2024/25 school year, the school has been running the weekly working group 'With honor and respect towards the future'.

This working group is run by volunteers from the Talentschmiede e. V. association, which has set itself the goal of supporting young people and young adults on their way to a self-reliant life."

Impact and importance of the working group
"Through this working group, the association creates a special space for listening and gives our pupils the feeling of being heard and taken seriously.
Here they can express themselves freely, share worries and fears and receive support on their individual path, even beyond their school days."

Social contribution
"Young people from different countries of origin, religions and social classes come together in a respectful atmosphere.
Prejudices are broken down and a sense of community is strengthened. By getting to know and appreciate each other, integration in practice becomes visible here."