A sign of diversity: rainbow bench set up in Oberstadt
The city of Mainz has gained a visible symbol of diversity: Verddelsverein e. V. has donated a rainbow bench at the Schlesisches Viertel location, which was installed today. In the presence of the head of the Oberstadt district, Tim Ott, the chairman of the association, Michael Blum, handed over the bench donation to the city today, represented by Janina Steinkrüger, Head of the Environment Department.
The bench is a visible symbol of diversity, solidarity, and appreciation for the LGBTIQ community, and complements the rainbow stripes in the pedestrian zone, the pairs of traffic lights, and the existing rainbow benches at Tritonplatz.
“The City of Mainz is happy to support projects that promote the visibility of diversity. This rainbow bench represents the Mainz we want to be: a place where everyone—regardless of sexual orientation or identity—is welcome and feels safe,” emphasizes Janina Steinkrüger, Head of the Environment Department for the State Capital of Mainz.
The idea for the new bench originated from a suggestion made by the Verddelsverein to the then-district mayor, Daniel Köbler. At the same time, by installing the bench, the city is fulfilling a request made by the Mainz-Oberstadt District Council in September 2024.
The Verddelsverein e. V., based in Mainz, is committed to social cohesion and inclusion. The cost of the bench, amounting to 2,118.20 euros, was financed by the Verddelsverein—through a variety of donations that covered a large portion of the budget, as well as a contribution from the association’s funds. The city handled the preparation of the seating area and the installation of the bench.
