Cologne deletes Playground”: New name for more inclusion and diversity!

Cologne deletes Playground”: New name for more inclusion and diversity!

A planned change is causing a lot of conversation in Cologne: the city administration would like to replace the traditional term “playground” with the more neutral term “play and activity area”. The aim of this measure is to do justice to the diverse uses of the open spaces and to promote tolerance towards different age groups and target groups. A report from Cologne City Gazette recently brought the topic into the spotlight.

Cologne's mayor Henriette Reker (independent) expressed skepticism about the project. She finds the term “playground” to be clear and understandable. However, as the administration works to redesign playground signs, there are other challenges the city must address. Reker announced that he would present the renaming proposal to the city council for a vote on September 4th. An approval vote from the city council is necessary before the new signs can be put up in Cologne's parks.

From the idea to implementation

The decision to rename is based on the argument that the old term is too restrictive. Inclusion plays a central role here: The city is pursuing the approach of allowing all Cologne citizens to participate in the aforementioned play and activity areas, regardless of age, gender or individual abilities. Places are already being planned that are not only aimed at young children, but also at young people and families. Part of the planning by 2030 is over 120 new and modernized facilities, including sports areas such as football and basketball courts as well as water play areas.

The opposition leader in the North Rhine-Westphalia state parliament, Jochen Ott (SPD), sharply criticized the renaming. He points out that the condition of many Cologne playgrounds is in great need of improvement and that the city's capacities could be better used elsewhere. The new signs, which were developed in a lengthy process lasting almost a year, show fictional people in motion so as not to allow any conclusions to be drawn about their age, cultural background or impairments.

Inclusion in public spaces

A holistic approach to inclusion in playgrounds plays a crucial role. Inclusion means that all children can play freely and that different levels of difficulty of play equipment should be available. It's not just about slides and swings, but about promoting creativity and freedom of movement through a wide range of activities. This also includes barrier-free access and suitable places for parents and grandparents to help and support their children. A report from GALK emphasizes that every small step that enables everyone to participate is valuable.

Overall, the new approaches to redesigning and renaming Cologne's playgrounds still seem to raise many questions for both the administration and the citizens. It remains to be seen whether the new term will become established. The capital of the Rhenish joie de vivre is challenged to master the balancing act between tradition and modern requirements, while at the same time addressing the needs of all citizens.