Today sees the launch of the nationwide #HochschulenZeigenHaltung campaign - a joint initiative of various networks, including the Anti-Discrimination Network at Universities, the Diversity Network at Universities and the Federal Conference of Women's and Equal Opportunities Officers at Universities. Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences Berlin is also taking part in the campaign and, together with many other universities, is taking a stand against right-wing extremist influence and attacks on science and universities.
We stand for an open, solidary and free university and academic culture. Together, we are drawing attention to existing anti-democratic tendencies and calling for the visible defense of basic democratic values.
Universities take a stand
Universities stand for openness, diversity and the free exchange of ideas. Academic knowledge is the result of critical thinking, the struggle for the most convincing arguments and respectful discourse. These principles are inextricably linked to the values of freedom of expression, human dignity, equal rights and the rule of law. Together, they form the foundation of our democratic coexistence. If these values come under threat, we must act together. Universities are open social spaces in which people from different backgrounds study, work and research together. They are places for critical reflection - also on social conditions. In this way, they have an impact on society. At the same time, they are guarantors of innovation and social progress. The massive attacks against universities, not only in the USA but also in Germany, show just how important they are to society.
Academics and students are increasingly being attacked verbally and even physically. Political influence on the academic system and agitation against minorities are on the rise. Academic freedom is coming under increasing pressure. Right-wing populist denigration of scientific findings, interference in university autonomy and ideologically motivated restrictions on the discourse space from the right are increasing noticeably. These developments affect all university members - teachers, researchers, students, doctoral candidates, technical and administrative staff, equality, anti-discrimination and diversity activists as well as university policy committees and university management. It's time to take a stand!
We urge politicians to protect the freedom of research and teaching in all disciplines equally, to equip universities appropriately and to promote an open culture of welcome. Politics must be based on scientifically sound facts rather than populist "opinions". Together with allies from academia and civil society, we call on all university members to stand up for a democratic, diverse and free higher education landscape. We firmly oppose all forms of group-focused misanthropy, hostility towards science, right-wing extremism and hostility towards democracy!
Protecting academic freedom
Academic freedom is enshrined in the German Basic Law - it protects research from political interference. Free science is the basis for innovation, progress and democracy. However, researchers are increasingly being threatened, entire research disciplines defamed or their work restricted - even in the name of academic freedom. Where science comes under pressure, democracy is also in danger. Let's defend the freedom of research and teaching together!
Facts instead of fakes
Democracy needs verifiable facts. Universities provide them. Science verifies claims, strengthens critical thinking, creates orientation - and thus enables well-founded decisions. This is precisely why right-wing extremist and populist forces are trying to delegitimize and silence them. Science is our most effective tool against myths and disinformation. Let's strengthen science communication together - for an open, participatory and dialog-oriented society!
Defending diversity
Science thrives on diverse perspectives, methods and questions. Universities have the task of enforcing the basic right to education for all. Equal opportunities are not a luxury for minorities, but an educational and political necessity and a prerequisite for academic excellence. However, right-wing extremist and populist attacks on marginalized groups, diversity work and anti-discrimination research fields are on the rise. Science needs diversity of perspectives - not simplicity and exclusion. Let's enforce the right to education for all and practice social responsibility!
Promote instead of abolish
Critical disciplines such as climate, racism and gender research are increasingly under attack. Under the guise of "reducing bureaucracy", there is a threat of cuts to equality, diversity and anti-discrimination work at universities. It is precisely the promotion of these areas of research and work that makes science inclusive, relevant and sustainable. What educates, protects and connects must not be cut. Let's invest in a fairer future with critical research and equal opportunities!
➡ Get involved: Share the campaign, for example on social media, join the discussion and send a visible signal for diversity, solidarity and democracy at universities!
To the social media channels of ASH Berlin:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
