• On August 29 and 30, Aachen's new citizens were honored by Lord Mayor Sibylle Keupen in a festive setting: "Diversity is nothing new here, but a tradition. "
• A total of 2,326 people were naturalized last year.
• The Aachen Diversity Award was presented to committed people and groups as part of the Long Table of Diversity at the Katschhof.

Once again this year, the Festival of Diversity 2025 sent out a powerful signal for a colorful, cosmopolitan Aachen. Last year, a total of 2,326 people were naturalized. A number so high that the city of Aachen organized two events for the naturalization ceremony for the first time. In comparison: in 2023, there were 878 new citizens.

The kick-off took place on Friday, August 29, in the historic Coronation Hall. Around 600 guests were officially welcomed that evening - a moment full of pride and emotion for the naturalized citizens and their families. On Saturday morning, 30 August, the second naturalization ceremony continued with a further 500 people in attendance.

Mayor Sibylle Keupen emphasized in her welcome speech: "Diversity is nothing new here, but a tradition. Almost a third of the people in our city have an international family history, which makes us strong, colorful and vibrant." Keupen was delighted about the high number of naturalized citizens in Aachen. This shows that Aachen is a city "that is attractive, open and welcoming. A city where you can find a home."

During interviews with the Lord Mayor, Deputy City Councillor Elisabeth Paul, the Chairmen of the Integration Council Ralf Demmer, Julia Rejf and Baran Yenen, as well as Aachen residents who have already been naturalized, the obstacles, opportunities and personal experiences surrounding naturalization were discussed with moderator André Schnitker and voluntary work was promoted.

The "Frameless" choir under the direction of Tanja Raich and the "Hotaj-Rojkovski Duo" guitar and violin ensemble provided the musical accompaniment to the ceremony.

Long table of diversity: a celebration of encounters and togetherness

Afterwards, the celebrations continued at the Katschhof in Aachen. The "Long Table of Diversity" was held there for the third time. The approximately 30-metre-long table was festively set and invited people of all generations to eat, laugh and chat together. Whether you brought your own delicacies or specialties from all over the world - there was something for every taste. In bright sunshine, visitors from a wide range of cultures and faith communities gathered to celebrate the colorful togetherness and diversity of the city. The Katschhof thus became a lively place for encounters, dialog and mutual respect.

Musical highlights were provided by a varied stage program that left nothing to be desired: The inclusive band NeonGrau52 opened with energetic songs. This was followed by impressive performances by Daisy Grow Yellow, Rock Spot, DJ Yomoko and The Quicksteps. The dance performances by the young "B-Girls" Annika and Lakisha were particularly captivating, as their cool moves set the stage alight. Presenter André Schnitker skillfully guided the audience through the varied program.

Diversity award ceremony: Commitment that enriches Aachen

Another highlight was the awards ceremony for the 13th Aachen Diversity Prize, presented by the City of Aachen and the city's Integration Council, which took place on the Katschhof stage for the first time this year. In her speech, the Lord Mayor emphasized the great importance of diversity and cohesion for the city. The awards were given to people and initiatives that are particularly committed to integration, anti-racism and intercultural dialog.

Stephan Kirschbaum, Stephan Manz and Gönül Fazlaoglu from Aachener Betreuungsbüro (ABB) were the first to receive this year's Diversity Award. The ABB has been supporting people with mental or intellectual disabilities and addictions since 2004 - and has created a special service for non-German-speaking, primarily Turkish-speaking clients with the "Turkey Project", which has been running since 2009.

The next prize went to the Talentschmiede e.V. Aachen association. With the working group "With honor and respect towards the future", the association creates a protected space for young people. The working group conveys mutual understanding and appreciation across cultural and social boundaries.

Babak Ghassim, co-founder of the artistic collective "Rebell Comedy", then received the Diversity Award. With his creative and humorous workshops, he is committed to breaking down social taboos, breaking down prejudices and promoting an open, tolerant society.

The honorary prize was awarded to the "Dialogue of Religions Working Group", which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The working group has been promoting exchange between different religious communities since 2005. With projects such as the interfaith calendar and the peace meal of religions, it has made an important contribution to social cohesion in Aachen.

Market of diversity and hands-on activities: Inform, experience, be part of it

Around the table, numerous associations, initiatives and organizations presented their work at the "Market of Diversity". Visitors were able to gather information, engage in conversation and discover offers on topics such as participation, equal opportunities and the promotion of democracy. The program ranged from a barrier-free wheel of fortune to a nostalgic children's carousel and face painting to a variety of hands-on activities, providing varied entertainment for young and old.

Even after the end of the official program, many visitors stayed on the Katschhof for a long time to enjoy the time together.

Contact
E-Mail: Tafel-der-Vielfalt@mail.aachen.de