How can we intervene when power dynamics are exploited or boundaries are crossed? What should we do when colleagues are belittled—and we’re “just” standing by? In this workshop, we’ll explore the options available to bystanders in situations of power abuse within the higher education context. Using concrete case studies and practical exercises, we’ll learn to better assess situations and respond appropriately. The goal is to strengthen individual capacity to act and to promote interventions based on solidarity.

Workshop Content:

• Reflecting on one’s own reactions in difficult situations
• Learning about the 5D strategies for bystander intervention
• Practice scenarios from academic studies, teaching, research, and administration
• Opportunities for discussion, sharing experiences, and asking questions

Workshop Objectives:

• Raising awareness of abuse of power in the higher education context
• Learning about the concepts of bystander intervention and allyship
• Exploring and reflecting on specific courses of action
• Encouraging the courage to intervene

Speakers
Lena Wagner coordinates the state’s gender equality program at JGU Mainz and is responsible for implementing a project to promote equal opportunity in STEM and medicine. In her role at the Office for Gender Equality and Diversity, she brings particular expertise in the strategic implementation of gender equality measures and the advancement of women in science.

Maike Schikora works as a consultant for gender and diversity at JGU Mainz, where she develops programs to promote equal opportunity in academia. Among other things, she supports researchers with questions regarding career development, visibility, diversity, and discrimination-sensitive research.

Target Audience: Doctoral Students

Registration: By 28 October via genderconsulting@uni-mainz.de to Maike Schikora | Office of Equality and Diversity, JGU Mainz