What about accessibility and inclusion in the cultural sector? Jochen Schropp (44) has seen it for himself. The moderator and actor is involved in the campaign
“I was surprised how many people are overwhelmed just talking to people with disabilities,” explains Schropp in an interview. He knows that many people are afraid of doing something wrong, “when it comes to questions about LGBTIQ*, homosexuality in my case, and wokeness in general”. “May I still say that?” is a question he keeps hearing to this day.
Jochen Schropp: As an actor, I’m interested in what accessibility looks like in the cultural sector. I talk to those affected about what can and must be improved. That’s why I met people from the “Un-Label” association in the Comedia Theater in Cologne to talk about accessibility and inclusion in the cultural sector.
Schropp: I found out that many theaters are overwhelmed with this topic. Where do you start, what do you have to think about, and above all how sensitive are those who are not affected when dealing with this topic? “Un-Label” is creating awareness and qualification here with its project, which is being funded by Aktion Mensch with over 300,000 euros.
Schropp: Of course I knew some things, but other things were new to me. I was surprised how many people are overwhelmed just talking to people with disabilities because they lack awareness.
Schropp: Personally, I know that many people are afraid of doing something wrong when it comes to questions about LGBTIQ*, homosexuality in my case, and wokeness in general. “May I still say that?” is a question I keep hearing. My personal position is that if the question is asked out of positive curiosity, you can ask me anything. It’s up to me to answer accordingly. But I also know many people who are tired of answering the same questions over and over again because they assume that people now have to contribute their own part to understanding. You can now get answers to many questions on the Internet or in specialist literature.
Schropp: Of course we are still at the very beginning, but queer actors are now being cast much more naturally. Whether in queer roles that require a self-image, or as a matter of course as a heterosexual figure. Being queer is no longer a reason not to be cast.
Schropp: Unfortunately, I still hear sentences that make me uncomfortable. Prejudice, hurtful words and stigma happen more often than you think. However, I am now making people aware of this. That’s the nice thing: once you open your mouth, you do it again and again!
Schropp: My husband and I had lunch with our maids of honor in the restaurant where we also celebrated our wedding in Berlin, then we walked a bit through the city and then enjoyed the sun a bit. In the evening we went dancing again after a very long time. We spent our winter vacation in Cape Town and visited many places there that we also showed our wedding guests. So we’ve been reveling in wedding memories months ago.
Schropp: Not any different than someone who isn’t married – except that from time to time I frantically look for my ring because of course I have to take it off for acting projects.
