Thursday 3.7.2025 7.00 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.
For more than three decades, Germany’s division has been history. And yet, many clichés persist—especially about women from East and West Germany. The West German woman is often portrayed either as a stay-at-home housewife or as a tough career-driven professional. The East German woman, by contrast, is said to “hold her own” in coal mining. She is described as resilient—or as a raven mother for putting her children in daycare. Where do these stereotypes come from? And how much truth lies behind them? The exhibition “Women in Divided Germany” sets out to explore these very questions.
On this evening, women from both East and West German backgrounds will discuss the long list of clichés, commonalities, and the differences that may still be felt today.
Opening Program:
Welcome:
Dr. Carola Brückner, District Councillor for Culture
Introduction:
J. Fischer-Rosendahl, Women’s and Gender Equality Officer, Spandau District Office
Panel discussion with:
Dr. Marina Grasse
In 1990, the first and only government commissioner for gender equality in the GDR
Claudia von Gélieu
Women’s history researcher, founder of Frauentouren
Dr. Annette Leo
Historian and publicist
Moderation:
Heike Gerstenberger, Gender Equality Officer in Pankow for 30 years
The event will be held in German and is a cooperation between the Women’s and Gender Equality Officer and the Department of Education and Culture of the Spandau District Office. The exhibition is published by the Federal Foundation for the Reappraisal of the SED Dictatorship and contributes to the 35th anniversary of German reunification. It was curated by Clara Marz.
