Accessibility

The European Day of Protest for Equality for People with Disabilities will take place on 5 May 2026. There will also be various activities in Bielefeld on this day under the motto "Human rights are not negotiable" from 11 to 13:30 on Rathausplatz.

After a short welcome at 11 a.m., the demonstration through the city centre will start at 11:15. From 12:00, there will be a varied stage programme on the Rathausplatz with a sofa talk with Lord Mayor Dr Christiana Bauer and live music from the band MALUKA. Various Bielefeld organisations will also be offering information stands and activities.

The Accessibility Services (ZAB) will be representing Bielefeld University with an information stand. Various materials will be used to present the topic of accessibility at Bielefeld University and the voices of staff and students.

For many people with disabilities, structural discrimination and marginalisation are still everyday experiences. When people are excluded from society due to barriers, it is not only their mobility that is restricted, but also their participation. However, participation is not a luxury, but a human right that strengthens our cohesion and our democracy. This year's motto "Human rights are not negotiable" emphasises that human rights are universal. They apply regardless of physical, mental or psychological conditions.

The day of protest gives people with disabilities and their organisations a public voice. Through actions and dialogue, attention is drawn to grievances and concrete measures are demanded to establish equality and participation in society as a matter of course. At the same time, the day invites people to reflect on their own attitudes and become active.