Düren's intergenerational dialogue tackles gender equality's past and future
A lively discussion on gender equality brought together students, seniors, and local leaders in Düren on March 27, 2026. The 'Generations in Dialogue' event, timed to mark International Women's Day, explored how views on equality have changed over time and what challenges lie ahead. Around 20 participants from St. Angela Gymnasium, the Senior Citizens' Council, and the Women's Forum took part in the exchange. The event kicked off with an overview of Düren's gender equality history, presented by Daniel Schulte, head of the city and district archives. He traced the development from the 1980s, when North Rhine-Westphalia first required municipal equality offices, to today's broader frameworks covering diversity and anti-discrimination.
Sabrina König, Düren's gender equality commissioner, highlighted ongoing struggles such as wage disparities and harassment in public spaces. She stressed that despite progress, significant work remains to achieve true equality. Christopher Lühr, deputy mayor for generations, demographics, and social affairs, joined the conversation, which quickly became an active intergenerational exchange. Participants shared personal experiences and debated how perceptions of justice have shifted across decades. The discussion also touched on the changing role of equality officers. Once pioneering figures, they now face political pressure, with some states attempting to downgrade or eliminate their positions. Modern approaches, like Heidelberg's 2026 'Round Table for Equality and Gender Justice,' show a move toward collaborative governance involving civil society, administration, and politics. Organised by Düren's Office for Generations, Volunteer Work, and Care Services alongside the city's Gender Equality Office, the event aimed to bridge generational gaps and push for a fairer society.
The gathering closed with a clear message: intergenerational dialogue plays a vital role in understanding diverse perspectives on equality. Participants left with a shared recognition of both past achievements and the need for continued action. The event reinforced the importance of collaboration in shaping a more equitable future for Düren and beyond.
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