Report racism

Racist incidents also occur within the context of higher education institutions. These include, among other things, discriminatory statements, racist insults, as well as racist graffiti or other forms of racially motivated property damage (e.g. graffiti, stickers, or posters). In addition, racist dynamics can also manifest in institutional structures, practices, and everyday interactions.
In order to respond appropriately, it is essential to make racist incidents visible and to document them systematically. Reports help ensure that incidents are taken seriously, that those affected receive support, and that both short-term measures and long-term structural changes can be initiated.

Incidents can be reported via email to rassismuskritik@verw.uni-koeln.de

Reports are treated with strict confidentiality and can also be submitted anonymously upon request.

Information on what such a report should include and how the subsequent process unfolds, can be found below:
 

1. Identifying and documenting:
If you observe a racist incident or are affected by one yourself, document it as promptly as possible. For example, if it involves racist graffiti, stickers, or other forms of racist vandalism, take a photo and note the exact location and time of your observation. If the incident concerns a specific verbal or written statement, you should also record your observation in detail as early as possible. Important details include, among others:

Guiding Questions

•    What exactly did you experience or observe?
•    Is there any background information related to this incident?
•    Who was involved?
•    Have any offices or departments at the University of Cologne already been informed?
•    Have any initial measures already been taken?

Example: “Racist graffiti (text) written with a permanent marker on a door.”

Location:

•    Address or building/building number
•    Section of the building & floor
•    Room/room number or area
•    If applicable, a more precise location

Example: “WiSo building, 2nd floor, corridor in front of room 2.101, wall opposite the elevators”

•    Date and time of the incident/observation:
Example: “Monday, April 16, at around 10:30 a.m.”
As precise documentation as possible facilitates further handling of the incident.

 

2. Reporting:
You can report racist incidents via email to rassismuskritik(at)verw.uni-koeln(dot)de

Please send your notes, as well as any available photos or screenshots, to the Equal Opportunities office. In your report, please also indicate whether you were personally affected by the incident or observed it, whether any further steps have already been taken, and whether you would like support or counseling.
 

3. Feedback and Next Steps

The Office for Equal Opportunities will send you a confirmation of receipt and, if necessary, request additional information. Your personal details will be treated with strict confidentiality.

4. Coordination of further measures:

Your report will then be reviewed, and the subsequent process will be coordinated by the Equal Opportunities Office. Depending on the nature of the incident, further steps will be initiated in cooperation with Central Office for Protection against Discrimination and Abuse of Power. For example, in the case of graffiti, its immediate removal will be arranged. In the event of an assault, those affected will receive appropriate support and be referred to suitable counseling services, contact points, and other support options. In all cases, the needs and protection of the reporting or affected person(s) are prioritized. Upon request, a summary of the outcome will be provided once the matter has been resolved.

5. Documentation of incidents:

The Equal Opportunities Office documents all reported incidents.
This documentation helps to systematically record racist incidents, make problem areas visible, and further develop prevention and awareness-raising measures.
 

6. Counseling and support:

Individuals affected by or witnessing racist incidents can also contact the Racism-Critical Counseling Service and the Central Office of Trust for Protection against Discrimination and Abuse of Power.