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Facebook Initiative by the Equality Office

The Erna-Eckstein-Straße, a new street, was officially unveiled in Bilk in honor of Dr. Erna Eckstein-Schlossmann, a key figure in establishing the Medical Academy Düsseldorf.

Social Media Initiative by the Equality Office
Social Media Initiative by the Equality Office

Facebook Initiative by the Equality Office

The city of Düsseldorf, Germany, is taking steps to address the underrepresentation of women in its street names, a phenomenon that is prevalent worldwide. This issue stems from historical biases, societal norms, and a lack of representation in decision-making positions.

The "brave - female - unforgotten" Exhibition

Last year, the exhibition "brave - female - unforgotten" shed light on the life stories of 16 significant women from Düsseldorf. However, some of these personalities were not found in the city plan, highlighting the extent of the underrepresentation. The Equal Opportunities Office of the state capital Düsseldorf is building on this exhibition, aiming to bring more recognition to these women.

A Look Back: Historical Efforts

In 1991, a brochure titled "Düsseldorf women on the trail - paths through the history of the city" was published, and in 2017, a city map named "Women's paths in Düsseldorf - with a historical view" was published. These resources present female personalities from Düsseldorf's history, offering a glimpse into the city's past and the contributions of its women.

Current Initiatives

During the summer holidays, the Equal Opportunities Office of Düsseldorf is launching a Facebook campaign to highlight significant women from Düsseldorf for whom there is no recognition in the city's streets. Every Saturday until the end of the holidays, a woman will be presented, aiming to bring attention to this issue and inspire change.

The city is also looking to name streets after influential women, as seen last year with the naming of two streets in Derendorf after Rose Auslander and Elfriede Bial. These initiatives are part of a broader movement towards increasing gender equality in public commemoration.

The Road Ahead

While specific initiatives in Düsseldorf are not detailed in the provided search results, general efforts to address such issues typically include gender equality initiatives, community engagement, and education and awareness. These strategies aim to create a more inclusive and representative urban landscape, ensuring that the contributions of all members of society are recognised and celebrated.

In conclusion, the underrepresentation of women in street names is a pervasive issue, but efforts are being made to rectify it. The "brave - female - unforgotten" exhibition and the upcoming Facebook campaign in Düsseldorf are steps towards creating a more inclusive cityscape. By acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of women, cities can create a more equitable and representative urban environment.

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