The European Diversity Month was launched by the European Commission as part of its efforts to promote equality and prevent discrimination. The initiative is part of the EU's broader equality and non-discrimination strategy, promoting inclusion regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or religion.
Alina Szeptycka, Plenipotentiary of the Mayor of Wroclaw for Equal Treatment: 'Diversity is a fact of life. It is also a source of strength and inspiration. Only by being open and proactive can we build a society where everyone feels respected and valued. Over the years, Wroclaw has taken many initiatives to be an example of inclusivity and solidarity.
The celebrations will begin on 5th May with a performative reading of Meltdown at the Proza Club. Written by Małgorzata Lech, the script tells the story of a mother and her adult daughter on the autism spectrum, addressing the theme of neurodiversity and the lives of neuroatypical people, which was still relatively unknown in the 1990s. The event, which was awarded in the Documentary Performative Reading competition organised by the Jerzy Grotowski Institute, brought together a large audience and experts to discuss the challenges of neurodiverse communities.
The next major event will be the conference 'Inclusive Workplace' in the Barbara Bar at Świdnicka Street on 7th May. During this event, experts will share their experience in creating work environments that are favourable for all employees regardless of age, gender, background or ability. Topics of panel discussions will include inclusive communication, gender equality, integration of people aged 50+, migrants and people on the autism spectrum. Practical solutions, such as sensory workplaces and psychological safety, will also be presented.
On 17th May, male and female residents can take part in a guided walk on the Wroclaw Diversity Trail. During the walk, they will learn more about various faces of the city that has been a meeting place for many cultures, nationalities and communities for centuries. As a city of women's emancipation and the LGBT+ community, Wroclaw is an excellent example of how diversity shapes local identity and history.
Wroclaw schools actively participate in the celebrations by organising workshops, competitions, themed days and intercultural picnics. In the Tadeusz Różewicz Municipal Public Library, you can attend literary exhibitions, authors’ meetings and discussions on queer, feminist and autism spectrum literature.
Barbara Lisiewicz, Director of the Department of Social Diversity in the Wroclaw City Office: ‘Education, dialogue and the inclusion of different social groups are key to this process. Everyone can contribute to building a more inclusive community.’
In order to promote accessibility, equality and participation in all aspects of social life, the first Department of Social Diversity in Poland was established within the city office in 2024. The department is made up of three offices: The Wroclaw without Barriers Office, the Office for Equal Treatment and the Office for the Implementation of Interdepartmental Projects. The department carries out such initiatives as the implementation of the provisions of agreements and charters regarding equality, such as the Diversity Charter, the European Charter for Equality of Women and Men and the 'No Barriers' Programme for People with Disabilities.
