Since 2014, the city of Offenbach has been involved in the Hessian state program WIR with a coordination office, the aim of which is to implement a future-oriented integration policy. Due to the further development of the funding program, the Offenbach coordination office is being restructured and will be launched as the WIR Diversity Center.
Even before 2014, Offenbach was part of WIR's predecessor program as a "model region for integration". "It is remarkable how the program has grown over time," says Martin Wilhelm, Head of Integration. "By working together with the Hessian municipalities as partners in this important field, sustainable concepts can be developed across the board and synergies can be used in a targeted manner. The diversity centers are the next effective step towards implementing a modern integration policy for all people living here, with or without a history of migration," said Wilhelm.
The state's WIR program identifies participatory justice as well as anti-racism and anti-discrimination work as fixed elements of a sustainable integration policy. With this in mind, the new edition of the "WIR-Vielfalt und Teilhabe" funding program offers a wide range of opportunities to support local integration and participation processes. The creation of municipal WIR diversity centers, consisting of two coordination offices, is one example of this.
In Offenbach, for example, the two coordinators Simone Lechner and Pia Tassler are working on implementing the program priorities. "When we talk about participatory justice, we are primarily concerned with the question of whether existing structures enable everyone to participate," explains Simone Lechner, whose main task is to promote the diversity-oriented opening of institutions and administration. "In a society that is constantly changing, it is to a certain extent an ongoing task to regularly scrutinize our structures." Pia Tassler is concerned with establishing a way of working together that reflects diversity and participation. "It is logical that in a diverse society, different lifestyles, positions and experiences come together. This makes it all the more important to treat each other with openness and respect. This appreciation of diversity is not least the basis for democratic coexistence."
Individual projects by public, church and non-profit organizations, including associations of people with a history of migration, are also eligible for funding under "WIR -Vielfalt und Teilhabe". The WIR Diversity Center will be happy to advise you on how to apply and the various support options.