Diversity Days 2025: How encounters drive change

DW

2 days ago

From May 13 to 28, DW celebrated the Diversity Days – with a diverse program and open spaces for dialogue, exchange, and meaningful encounters.
From May 13 to 28, Deutsche Welle hosted its annual Diversity Days.
Together with numerous internal interfaces, networks, and the ARD Diversity Board, DW's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion team put together a rich and varied program. It fostered encounters, raised awareness, and opened up spaces for dialogue and exchange.
The event series kicked off on May 13 with the launch of a new peer support network focused on racism and mental health. Numerous colleagues attended and listened as the connection between racism and mental well-being was explored. The open discussion that followed showed just how deeply this topic resonates—and how crucial lived solidarity is in the workplace. Barbara Massing, Managing Director of Business Administration, summed it up:
'In the end, it's up to all of us to create a safe and respectful work environment.'
One particularly moving moment was the conversation between Ursula Koll and queer activist Toni Velten. Toni spoke candidly about their journey toward self-identification beyond the binary gender norm—a path marked by personal insight as well as bureaucratic obstacles.
'Defend us—and don't be afraid to ask questions,' said Toni Velten, in a powerful call for greater allyship with non-binary people.
In both Bonn and Berlin, a Diversity Scavenger Hunt—organized by the Youth and Trainee Representation (JAV) and Ursula Koll—brought a lighthearted touch to the program and sparked intergenerational conversations. Between shared memories and future outlooks, one thing became clear: age is a dimension that connects us all.
'Where we come from shapes where we go.'
This was one of the key takeaways from the ARD Diversity Board panel. In a discussion with sociologist Aladin El-Mafaalani and other guests, the influence of social background on life paths—including careers in journalism—was made strikingly clear.
"Backgorund" was the main topic at the ARD Diversity Board panel Image: Inéz Schumann, Radio Bremen
On May 27, colleagues in both Berlin and Bonn were invited to connect directly with various diversity stakeholders. Interactive stations offered opportunities for conversation, networking, and participation—all in an atmosphere that was as informative as it was engaging.
The early evening was all about Pride@DW, celebrating its fourth anniversary. At both locations, colleagues gathered to mark the occasion with lively conversations, good energy, and a special performance: Karli Kant, DW's very own and truly unique drag queen, dazzled with her show. The Pride@DW network continues to grow and regularly hosts events like the Queers and Friends Lunches.
To round off the Diversity Days, DW Minds featured a powerful talk on May 28 with journalist Karen 'Kaz' Lucas, who shared insights from her reporting on queer communities in Kenya. Once again, it became clear how different life realities and legal frameworks are around the world—and how vital bold voices and platforms like 77 Percent are in amplifying these perspectives.
Karen 'Kaz' Lucas put it this way:
'As long as we can help keep the door to freedom and equality open, we will do so—not because we promote homosexuality, as some regimes claim, but because we believe in equality and the protection of minorities as a cornerstone of democracy.'
Words that resonate.
The DW Diversity Days were a resounding success—inspiring, unifying, and deeply moving. Once again, it became clear: diversity concerns us all. Or, to put it simply: Diversity Day is every day.