Through the implementation of the project, we aimed to break down prejudices and potential stereotypes towards different cultures, languages, and religions, and to promote acceptance of diversity and variety. Diversity was to be viewed as an enrichment, and social cohesion was to be strengthened. To achieve this, we worked with the students to identify and explore differences and similarities between cultural traditions and perceptions, recognizing them as enriching. An important aspect was the shift in perspective, allowing students to experience different life situations and become familiar with various realities of life. This helped raise the children’s awareness of the diverse experiences and backgrounds of their peers. The project fostered a respectful and mindful approach to people, regardless of their gender, origin, religion, appearance, age, or culture.
Due to current political events around the world and the noticeable rise of right-wing pressure, racism and xenophobia have become particularly visible. The perpetuation of stereotypes and prejudices is encouraged, making it more difficult to foster harmonious and respectful coexistence, as well as societal acceptance of diversity. Some of our students and colleagues are affected by hostility and threats, and they feel unwelcome and unsafe in the country they live in. It is important to us to address topics such as racism, diversity, and cultural variety from an early age in order to help children break down stereotypes and prejudices as early as possible. We are committed to raising students' awareness of cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity, in order to create and promote a compassionate and accepting coexistence within our society. We often experience that topics such as racism and xenophobia receive too little attention in daily school life, and that a more detailed engagement with these issues is rarely given the consideration it deserves.