"Shaping Democracy!" – Adult Education Center Launches New Series on Democratic Engagement and Civic Participation
Bergisch Gladbach launches free civic engagement series on democracy
The local adult education center (Volkshochschule, VHS) is inviting the public to take an active role in a new event series designed to foster democratic engagement, discussion, and collective action. The program welcomes anyone interested in exploring current social developments—whether to stay informed, exchange ideas, or contribute their own perspectives.
A Space for Dialogue, Orientation, and Participation
At a time when political and societal issues are leaving many people uncertain, the VHS is deliberately creating diverse opportunities for engagement: platforms for speaking and being heard, formats for respectful exchange, and expert-led lectures to help contextualize today's challenges. The goal is to strengthen democratic competencies and encourage people to take an active part in public discourse.
Speaking Up and Being Heard
The "Heart Evening – Speaking and Being Heard in Uncertain Times" on April 21, 2026, offers a safe space for participants to share personal thoughts and emotions. The focus is on listening and mutual understanding—an opportunity for those grappling with the flood of current news and developments.
Practicing Democracy in Action
The "Democracy Takes Practice" debate club, meeting on April 22, 2026, and May 20, 2026, turns democratic dialogue into a hands-on experience. Participants can hone their argumentation skills, consider different viewpoints, and engage in respectful discussion.
Understanding Knowledge and Context
The series also includes lectures providing in-depth analysis and orientation: - On April 23, 2026, a talk will examine developments in U.S. democracy, particularly in the context of former President Trump's influence. - On May 8, 2026—Europe Day—the focus shifts to the EU's joint migration management policies.
Confronting Contemporary Trends
The series concludes with a June 12, 2026, workshop titled "What Does It Mean to Be on the Right?", exploring far-right movements and practical responses in everyday life.
All events will be held at Haus Buchmühle in Bergisch Gladbach. Most are free to attend, though the "Heart Evening" carries a €5 fee. Advance registration is required.
This democracy series is an open invitation: Democracy thrives on participation. The VHS aims to empower local residents to stay informed, engage in dialogue, and make their voices heard.
Schedule at a Glance:
- April 21, 2026, 6:30–8:00 PM – Workshop: "Heart Evening – Speaking and Being Heard in Uncertain Times" (€5, register by April 14, 2026)
- April 22, 2026, 5:30–7:00 PM – Debate Club: "Democracy Takes Practice" (register by April 15, 2026)
- April 23, 2026, 6:30–8:00 PM – Lecture: "Former President Trump and the Future of American Democracy" (register by April 16, 2026)
- May 8, 2026, 6:00–7:30 PM – Lecture: "The EU's Joint Migration Management" (register by April 30, 2026)
- May 20, 2026, 5:30–7:00 PM – Debate Club: "Democracy Takes Practice" (register by May 13, 2026)
- June 12, 2026, 5:00–7:15 PM – Workshop: "What Does It Mean to Be on the Right?" (register by June 5, 2026)
Venue:
Haus Buchmühle, Bergisch Gladbach
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