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Cologne school celebrates diversity: A sign against discrimination!
The Alfred-Müller-Armack BK in Cologne- Zollstock becomes part of the “School of Diversity” network and is celebrating its 15th anniversary.
Cologne school celebrates diversity: A sign against discrimination!
The Alfred-Müller-Armack Vocational College in Cologne- Zollstock received an important award on July 8, 2025. The educational institution was officially recognized as a project school in the federal “School of Diversity” network. This initiative aims to promote sexual and gender diversity in everyday school life and establish a respectful culture. On the occasion of these celebrations, the school also celebrated its 15th anniversary as a “school without racism – school with courage”.
The motto of the ceremony was “Diversity Day – with Courage” and began with a celebratory event at which a declaration of commitment was signed. The project sign “Come in – We are open” was hung and a rainbow flag, a symbol of diversity and acceptance, was raised. Principal Christine Tharra used the opportunity to highlight the importance of the school's commitment to diversity. Their appeal was received: educational institutions must be pioneers in the fight against discrimination. The Alfred-Müller-Armack Vocational College is supported by the Anti-Discrimination Organization, which acts as part of the federal network against homophobia and transphobia and promotes special measures against discrimination.
A variety of workshops as an internship offer
The event also included a variety of workshops in which students had the opportunity to actively work on topics such as anti-discrimination and diversity. Workshops such as “Prejudice, clichés and stereotypes – How do we encounter people from other cultures?” and “RealityCheck – My View of the World” enabled participants to reflect on their own experiences and engage with diverse perspectives.
These workshops are part of a larger concept that is supported by various organizations, including the Federal Queer Committee of the GEW and the Queerformat Department of Queer Education. The latter offers, among other things, materials for various schools as well as teaching materials that address the needs of students dealing with identity-related issues.
Perspectives for the future
The measures of the federal “School of Diversity” network are not only aimed at improving the situation of LGBTIQ* employees, but also at offering active support for students. The network provides further training, provides information on equality issues and promotes cooperation between schools in different federal states. This is important because studies show that inclusive anti-bullying policies can significantly contribute to the mental health and well-being of young people.
The school community of the Alfred-Müller-Armack Vocational College has not only taken a step in the right direction, but has also taken on a role model function for other schools. In a world where prejudice and discrimination are still prevalent, the school sets an example for tolerance and acceptance.
For more information about anti-discrimination projects and support in education, visit the website Anti-discrimination agency be visited. Also the page of Cologne City-Anzeiger provides further insight into the project and the impact such initiatives have on school communities. The German Youth Institute additionally brings in relevant studies and resources that deepen the understanding of the topic.