Many bars, clubs, and event venues in Berlin are spaces for free expression. Places outside of everyday life where people, in all their diversity, find self-determination and light-heartedness. However, wherever people come together, social power structures and hierarchies are far from inexistent. Even though a lot is already being done, Berlin’s nightlife is not free from sexism, ableism, racism, antisemitism, LGBTIQ* hostility, and other forms of discrimination.
Discrimination manifests in both unconscious and conscious actions, from derogatory statements and other boundary violations to assaults and (physical) violence. Structures can also discriminate and exclude people based on their gender, age, ability, origin, skin colour, and/or other (also overlapping) dimensions.
For true participation and respectful, solidarity-based interactions in nightlife, everyone shares responsibility. This also means learning about what discrimination is and what risks people face due to its different forms. Those who are aware will also find it easier to challenge discriminatory situations.
Whether a particular situation or action is discriminatory, can best be assessed by those affected. They are the experts in the situation and should decide what kind of support is right for them. This can be friends, awareness structures in clubs, and, depending on the severity of the violation, the police.
Organisations that support and advice in cases of discrimination are:
