Background: In the U.S. white nationalists are unfolding serious activities whereas the president tells right-wing groups “I am with you”. In Germany the right-wing populists of AfD are represented in Parliament. Immigration issues are controversially discussed in both countries. Activists claiming to represent the “silent majority” call for white supremacy in the U.S. and for a German “mainstream culture” in response. Is this the world we seek? Is this what our founders have been dreaming of? And what can we do to change it? This project brings American and German students together to think about these burning issues, find new solutions, and  get involved. The intercultural German-American setting provides inspiration and empowerment.

Aims and Guiding Topics: 1. The history of immigration: Both countries faced a great influx of immigrants. Why did people come to our countries and from where? How were they received by the hosting society? And how is immigration discussed now? We will share our family biographies and learn how large-scale events influenced them. We will compare our historic narratives and see to what extent immigrants contributed to them. 2. The challenges of democracy: Who feels represented and who feels left behind? Who speaks for the “silent majority”? Whose voice is not heard? We will look at how democracy works in the U.S. and Germany and also add insights from additional perspectives that participants from diverse backgrounds contribute. We will speak to politicians on different levels. We will look at political culture and address the current challenges. In a simulation game, we will develop our own vision of what democracy should be like. 3. Dialogue and diversity: How do we handle diversity in our countries? How can people find their way to participate and contribute to politics and decisions? How can we counter discrimination and exclusion? In practical exercises we will learn how to establish true dialogue in our environment. We will visit NGOs, civil society organizations, and youth projects. They will share their visions and we will learn how to have an impact on current events. 4. Coherence and integration: What can “we” as individuals and in groups do to put visions into practice? Which are the next steps to create change? How can we make the world we seek? In the last step, we will use the seminar experience to develop follow-up activities that can be realized in our home communities and countries.

Knowledge transfer: This is not just about a two-week interdisciplinary seminar that brings together students, researchers, activists, and politicians. It is about training to become responsible leaders of change and cultural diplomats who work for interaction and understanding in a transnational society. The impact of this project will thus go far beyond the duration of the actual seminar program.