Rainbow bench in Cottbus: A symbol of diversity and respect!

Rainbow bench in Cottbus: A symbol of diversity and respect!

On June 26, 2025, the inauguration of the new rainbow bench and the bench against racism took place on the campus of the Brandenburg Technical University Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU). This event was organized by Susanne Dyhr, who works in the Department of Social Work Methods and Theories and is intensively involved in community work and right-wing extremism prevention. The installation of the rainbow bench comes after the destruction of the original bench, which represents an important symbol of openness and respect for diversity. Dyhr commented that these benches should act as symbols of freedom and social togetherness.

The destruction of the previous rainbow bench, which took place as part of the Sachsendorf cultural campus, is seen as a clear attack on the values ​​of the university and its community. This act is seen in a larger context of discrimination and social exclusion, especially by right-wing conservative to extreme right-wing actors who negate gender and individual diversity. A complaint has already been filed against those responsible. To commemorate the destruction, a flower bed called a “mourning bed” is created near the former bank.

A sign of diversity and tolerance

The new rainbow bench will be installed on campus by the summer semester of 2025 and will serve as a place for meetings and discussions. A pot luck picnic for staff and students was also organized to promote peaceful coexistence. The colors of the rainbow bank represent the LGBTQIA+ community and their diverse identities.

A similar bank in Burgwedel is also sending a strong message against discrimination and racism. This was initiated by a dialogue event and the “Einzigartig” association and is now the target of repeated acts of vandalism. The bench was recently torn from its anchorage and had to be encased in concrete to protect it. The city management plans to make the bench more visible as a “walking bench” at various events and to install additional rainbow stripes at the youth center.

Discrimination and its effects

Dealing with discrimination is a central issue in Germany. The Beltz addresses various forms of discrimination, including racist, anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim discrimination. The volume offers options for intervention and resistance for social work and education and also highlights how social work can be part of discrimination structures or actors in human rights changes.

Reflecting on discrimination and racism is particularly important for educational work. The volume also examines the experiences of refugees from Syria and the challenges associated with integration discourses. This comprehensive analysis aims to promote equitable change regarding colonialism, nationalism and racism.

The Sachsendorf Cultural Campus will take place on June 27, 2025 from 3 p.m. and is supported by various organizations and companies, including the BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg and the Student Council. Admission is free and the event is intended not only to mourn but also to celebrate diversity.