"We must continually develop an open society and a strong democracy in order to rise to future challenges in our country“ - Allianz der Wissenschaftsorganisationen

United for Democracy!

Dresden’s scientific and cultural institutions, under the umbrella of DRESDEN-concept e. V. and the alliance #WOD Weltoffenes Dresden, invite you to participate in four star parades and a festival of democracy on May 25, 2024, on Dresden’s Altmarkt.

Together, we want to send a clear signal for democracy and our constitutional rights: the dignity of every human being is inviolable, and the voices of minorities are heard. For us, these are things that are taken for granted but they are increasingly under threat. Together, we want to protect these fundamental values of our democratic and open society. The freedom of science and art is fundamental for a society that wishes to overcome the major challenges of our time.

We invite you to join us!

Join us in our commitment to democracy! Starting at 2 p.m., several groups will move to the Altmarkt in four-star trains. The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics will start with the star procession from Sachsenplatz. A stage program with speeches and music will take place at the Altmarkt. There, we would like to encourage encounters and discussions through various scientific and artistic exchange formats. Tell us about your experiences, let us discuss together why democratic principles are essential for science to be successful. Everyone is welcome to join us in working for democracy.

FAQ about the event

• What is "TOGETHER FOR DEMOCRACY - Dresden's science and culture invites you"?

"TOGETHER FOR DEMOCRACY - Dresden's science and culture invites you" is a major event that will take place in Dresden on May 25, 2024.

• Who are the initiators?

DRESDEN-concept, the network of research and cultural institutions of the Science & Innovation Campus Dresden, and #WOD Weltoffenes Dresden, the alliance of Dresden's cultural institutions for a society based on solidarity, democratic values and the diversity and freedom of art and culture.

• Where can I find an overview of the participating institutions?

The organizing and supporting institutions can be found on the event website.

• What does the event stand for?

Together, we want to send a clear signal for democracy and our fundamental rights: The dignity of every human being is inviolable and the voices of minorities are heard. For us, these are self-evident values that are increasingly under threat.
We want to protect these fundamental values of our democratic and open society together and stand up for democracy. The freedom of science and art is fundamental for a society that wants to overcome the major challenges of our time.

• How is the event financed?

The event is financed with the support of scientific and cultural institutions and donations.

• How does the event relate to the neutrality requirement?

Science and culture are part of society and therefore cannot be apolitical. However, we are neutral in terms of party politics, which is an important difference.

• What is the schedule for May 25, 2024?

On Saturday, May 25, several groups will meet at four squares from 13:30:
- Fritz-Förster-Platz
- Sachsenplatz
- Albertplatz
- Wettiner Platz
From 2 p.m., the groups will set off in 4 processions to the Altmarkt, where a festival for democracy will take place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. with speeches and musical contributions. Stalls and various scientific and artistic exchange formats will be set up on the square to facilitate encounters and discussions. Everyone is welcome to join us in standing up for democracy.
The exact program is published on the event website.

• Who is invited?

The organizers strive to create a space that is as barrier-free and non-discriminatory as possible for everyone. An awareness point on the Altmarkt will provide a place of information and retreat, and the awareness point team will be available to participants in German and English.

• How can I help?

For the event on 25.05.2024, we are still looking for "helping hands", primarily as stewards as part of a voluntary commitment. Depending on the location (Fritz-Förster-Platz, Sachsenplatz, Albertplatz, Wettiner Platz, Altmarkt), the period is from approx. 13:00 to approx. 19:00. A briefing will take place.
If you are interested in volunteering for "TOGETHER FOR DEMOCRACY - Dresden's science and culture invites you", please contact the DRESDEN-concept office directly: geschaeftsstelle@dresden-concept.de