“Awareness” comes from the English language and can literally be translated as “awareness, being informed, being sensitised to certain issues”. It stands for mindful and respectful interaction.
Awareness is a concept that opposes all forms of discrimination, violence and boundary violations. Offensive and transgressive behaviour, such as sexist, racist, homophobic, trans-hostile, ableist or other similar attacks are not tolerated.
If you would like to find out more about terms that you are not yet familiar with, you can use the We Take Care glossary, for example.

Why is Awareness important?

People with different experiences, life paths and opinions come together at the Pavillon cultural centre. This diversity is what makes the Pavillon what it is and we are happy about it.
We live in a society in which unequal power dynamics are a reality. People are favoured (privileged) or disadvantaged (discriminated against) based on different characteristics. This happens intentionally – but it can also happen unintentionally. Unfortunately, we are not free of such situations at events either.
In order for us to enjoy the diversity at the Pavillon cultural centre, it is essential that we treat each other with appreciation and respect. We all have different boundaries, and it is important that we respect and uphold the boundaries of other people. That’s why the following applies to us at events, but also in everyday life: look out for each other, approach each other and offer help.

At the Pavillon cultural centre, we work with an awareness concept that we are constantly improving. Our employees are sensitised and trained via the “We Take Care” network. You can recognise our employees by the badges they wear around their necks. You will find them at the entrance, at the cloakroom (if this is offered) and in the hall.

At most events, we have access to a specially equipped awareness room if you need it. If the room is not available, we can offer you other retreat options.

We have unisex toilets in the cultural centre as well as additional barrier-free sanitary facilities.

If you observe assaultive, discriminatory and/or violent behaviour, ask the person concerned if they would like help. “Being there” for someone can also mean considering together with the person concerned how they are coping in the situation they are in, what would be good for them now and how they can remain or become able to act. If you need support, contact our team at any time, we are there for you and will try to support you.

At this point, we would like to point out that we as a team do not have experience or inexhaustible knowledge of all discrimination-related topics. Unfortunately, we also cannot guarantee that we are a diverse team at every event or that we speak different languages, for example. If necessary, we will provide contact details that bring different expertise in relation to your needs.

We know we’re not perfect and we’re learning – so if you have any comments, questions or criticism, feel free to write to us! You can reach us at care@pavillon-hannover.de

You can find trustworthy and free advice centres at www.wetakecare-hannover.de/en/support-counseling/