Classism

The present, which is characterised by crises and the constantly increasing differences in the living conditions of socially underprivileged and wealthy people in Western European societies, has meant that the question of class affiliation has once again increasingly become an issue here – and with it, classism. This is clearly visible in literature and theatre with numerous autobiographical texts about experiences of social advancement and discrimination. Classism is the prejudice and exclusion of people based on their presumed economic situation and/or social background. As with racism or sexism, discrimination based on classism affects all areas of everyday and social life. As expected, the field of art and culture is not exempt from this, regardless of whether you look at the audience or those involved in cultural production: Cultural participation is determined by financial and social resources. You have to be able to afford to work in the cultural sector. As part of the event, we will explore possibilities of becoming more aware of this classist character of the system. We will get to know different perspectives on the topic and talk to researchers, cultural producers and policy makers who strive every day to break down barriers and create cultural access for everyone.