Awareness

Awareness Concept: Key Terms

What Does Awareness Mean to Us?

"Awareness" means being conscious and considerate, especially when addressing discrimination and power dynamics. It involves sensitizing ourselves to the needs and boundaries of those affected. In a society where discriminatory behaviors such as racism, sexism, or homophobia are commonplace, awareness must also address institutional and structural discrimination. As a political practice, it includes both prevention and support for those affected.

Key Awareness Terms

Agency of Definition: Only the affected person decides what happened and how they wish to be supported. We act in a survivor-centered way and provide support based on their preferences.
Partisanship: We stand in solidarity with those affected and remain partial, even when engaging with those responsible for discrimination without stigmatizing them. However, due to our commitment to partisanship and survivor-centeredness, those responsible for discrimination may be excluded from events.

Privileges

Societal power imbalances create privileges, which in turn lead to discrimination. Privileges do not necessarily mean engaging in discriminatory behavior, but they can contribute to the disadvantage of others. Awareness of one’s own privileges is essential for interacting in a discrimination-sensitive manner.

What Do I Need to Feel Comfortable in Our Spaces?

In our spaces, criticism should be openly addressed and reflected upon. We aim to create an environment where people feel safe to call out discriminatory behavior. An entry stop prevents overcrowding, and an awareness room provides a retreat for rest.

✨ AWARENESS – INFO POSTER ✨

What We Offer

Awareness Room (low-stimulus & protected):

Separate retreat space in a shared apartment
Adjustable lighting (bright/dim)
Exclusively for your use

On-Site Materials:

First aid kit, blankets, thermal blankets
Water, snacks, fruit, glucose (please inform us of allergies)
Earplugs, sunglasses (for strobe lights), sleep mask
Breathing bag, stress ball/stim toys, music options
Tea, mate, magnesium
Strong sensory stimuli (e.g., ammonia, sour candy, lemon)
List of support services
Safe escort home upon request

How to Reach Us

Via entry, security, or event management
Awareness team members are clearly identifiable
Additional notices at the entrance and on posters
We strive for a diverse team so that affected individuals can find suitable contacts (e.g., FLINTA* for FLINTA*)

Our Boundaries

We operate within our capacity limits
If an awareness team member is personally affected, another will take over
In cases of multiple incidents simultaneously: support is provided as possible; otherwise, assistance is prioritized chronologically or at our discretion
As a self-organized project, we cannot always guarantee full staffing

Additional Notes

We do not prohibit anyone from expressing their political views through clothing, including regarding West Asia. Keffiyeh are welcome.
Wearing far-right symbols will result in exclusion from the event.

Feel free to approach us at any time. We are here for you. ❤️