Jena against racism - Inclusion in European coalition of cities
The city of Jena is a new member of the European Coalition of Cities against Racism (ECCAR). This makes Jena part of a network of over 160 municipalities from all over Europe that actively campaign against racism, discrimination and xenophobia at a local level, exchanging ideas and networking. The city of light was able to completely convince the twenty-five members of the admission committee with its application. It voted unanimously in favor of Jena's membership.
"This is a really great success for the city of Jena and shows how much we are already doing to combat racism and discrimination. The commission was impressed by how strong our civil society is, how actively involved the Round Table for Democracy is and how well the coordination with the city administration works. Another very important point was our social engagement with the NSU complex in the city last year under the title 'Kein Schlussstrich' (No Final Stroke) and the commemoration of the victims of the NSU, for example with the naming of Enver-Şimşek-Platz in Winzerla. Our inclusion in the coalition thus acknowledges our commitment to date. We will continue to pursue this path consistently, because for us it is clear: there is no place for racism and discrimination in Jena!" emphasizes Lord Mayor Dr. Thomas Nitzsche.
Measures against racism
Various measures against racism are set out in a 10-point action plan based on the city council resolution 20/0372-BV "Jena is a city against racism" of 16.07.2020. The creation of this plan was a condition for ECCAR admission. Some of the projects have already been implemented, others are being planned.
"The Jena Anti-Discrimination Office started its work a year ago. The next focus will be a broad-based public relations campaign to raise awareness of the phenomena of everyday racism," says Andreas Amend, Integration Manager of the City of Jena, citing examples.
Everyday racism can occur in many different situations. There are good examples among ECCAR members of how municipalities can successfully uncover and minimize these problems. "Jena will benefit from the exchange with the other cities in the coalition," says Dörthe Thiele, Commissioner for Migration and Integration for the City of Jena, confidently. "We are particularly keen to hear about successful measures to counter discrimination on the housing market and increase opportunities for disadvantaged people looking for accommodation," she adds.
Background
The European Coalition of Cities against Racism (ECCAR) was founded in 2004 on the initiative of UNESCO to create an international network of cities that actively combat racism, discrimination and xenophobia at municipal level. To achieve this goal, the cities share their experiences with each other and in some cases work together. The "10-point action plan" with the following points serves as a guideline for action:
- Increased vigilance against racism
- Assessment of the local situation and municipal measures
- Better support for victims of racism and discrimination
- Better participation and information opportunities for citizens
- The city as an active promoter of equal opportunities
- The city as an employer and service provider
- Equal opportunities on the housing market
- Combating racism and discrimination through education and upbringing
- Promoting cultural diversity
- Racist violence and conflict management
More than 160 cities and municipalities from all over Europe currently belong to the network. The president of ECCAR is Benedetto Zacchiroli, who represents the city of Bologna. The work of the coalition is coordinated by its office in the city of Heidelberg.