Event for parents: Sexism as a school topic

Sexism is often ridiculed by perpetrators and bystanders, not taken seriously and not recognized as a problem. The situation is very different for those affected. Sexist and sexualized violence, like any form of violence, has a range of sometimes serious consequences. As this problem affecting society as a whole does not stop at the school environment, Leibniz School has been actively trying to tackle the problem of sexism since 2021 with its "We against sexism" program.

After several workshops had already been held with pupils and staff, a workshop for the members of the School Parents' Council (SEB) took place on November 8, 2023.

After a welcome from Claudia Hofmann, Chair of the SEB, anti-sexism expert Katharina Debus gave a presentation highlighting existing gender inequalities and the resulting pressures. Violence, career and study choices, the gender pay gap, care work and the effects on self-confidence and self-efficacy are just some of them.

After clarifying various terms relating to the topic of sexism, concrete effects on the relevance of the topic for schools followed. The researcher's explanations were supplemented by the experiences of teachers Dr. Sarah Haßdenteufel and Christian Keller, who coordinate the various activities of the project as a team and are available as direct contacts for the school community. A lively discussion quickly ensued between those present and many questions were asked and mostly answered. It became clear again and again that sexism, as a form of group-related misanthropy, can have many causes and manifestations, and that dealing with this topic is a valuable long-term project at the Leibniz School. Everyone involved drew a positive conclusion to the evening, which ended in a relaxed atmosphere after the official part.