Swimming with "Dresden is not bunt," as dubbed by Buntes.
In the heart of Saxony, the city of Dresden recently hosted its seventh annual "Dresden ist bunt" feast, a vibrant event that showcases the city's commitment to diversity and engagement.
The feast, which made its debut in 2015, was initiated to counteract negative perceptions of Dresden and to promote the city as a welcoming place for both private and professional reasons. This year's event, held on a 600-meter-long table on the Augustus Bridge, was sponsored by 270 tables managed by companies, initiatives, and cultural institutions.
The primary focus of the feast is to foster a sense of community and inclusivity, as expressed by Thomas Schreiter, the organizer of the event and a local graphic designer, painter, and festival organizer. According to Schreiter, the key aspect of the "Dresden ist bunt" feast is the interest in others, with participants engaging in activities such as crafting, playing, chatting, debating, music, recitations, and dancing.
The event attracted locals, newcomers, and city guests alike, who came together to sample their favourite dishes and celebrate Dresden's open-mindedness. Mayor Dirk Hilbert (FDP) commented on the widespread engagement of the population, stating that such events demonstrate the open-mindedness of the citizenry in Dresden.
Minister-President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) also attended the feast and commented that it showcases Saxony's openness to the world and civil society's engagement. Kretschmer emphasised that people from different cultures and religions enrich a country, and at the feast, one can see "the societal majority, which is positive, open, and curious."
The "Dresden ist bunt" feast also aims to welcome those who have had to flee, reinforcing its message of inclusivity and acceptance. Ehninger, a local resident, highlighted that the feast is about understanding and respecting each other's differences, fostering a sense of unity in diversity.
Such statements about the importance of diversity and engagement are not uncommon in Saxony, but the "Dresden ist bunt" feast serves as a significant platform to amplify these messages on a larger scale. The feast continues to grow each year, reflecting the city's commitment to promoting a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
