Orange the World 2025: University of Mannheim Takes a Stand Against Violence Against Women
Violence against women and girls takes many forms—from domestic and sexualized violence to digital harassment and structural discrimination. The University of Mannheim takes a clear stance against all forms of violence and is committed to fostering a respectful, discrimination-free environment on campus.
“Gender-based violence is not an isolated problem but a manifestation of deeply rooted social inequalities. It concerns all of us,” emphasizes Professor Heiko Paulheim, Vice President for Digitalization, Equal Opportunity and Diversity at the University of Mannheim. “At the University of Mannheim, we aim to raise awareness, promote solidarity, and empower those affected. Only by looking closely—together—can we make violence visible and take action against it.”
Counseling, support, and solidarity
The Department of Equal Opportunity and Diversity is the central point of contact for students and staff members seeking advice and support in cases of sexual harassment, discrimination, or violence. Through confidential counseling and awareness-raising initiatives, it plays an important role in fostering an open and safe university culture.
Those affected, people in their social environment, and professionals can access confidential and free counseling on all forms of violence against women 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by calling 116 016.
Further information and support services can also be found on our website or you can contact:
- Dipl.-Soz.päd. (FH) Alexandra Zimmermann (she/her)
Psychosocial Counseling, University of Mannheim, Department of Equal Opportunity and Diversity
B 6, 30–32 – room 014, 68159 Mannheim
Phone: +49 621 181-2526
E-mail: alexandra.zimmermannuni-mannheim.de - Prof. Dr. Georg W. Alpers(he/him)
Head of the Outpatient Mental Health Clinic, Executive Director of the Otto Selz Institute, psychological psychotherapist (CBT), supervisor
University of Mannheim, Otto Selz Institute
L 13, 17 – room 208, 68161 Mannheim
Phone: +49 621 181-2106
E-mail: alpersuni-mannheim.de
Events and activities in Mannheim and the region
Theme day “Stalking – Violence in the Shadows”
27 November 2025 | UMM University Medical Centre Mannheim
Hybrid event featuring expert talks on stalking, its dynamics, and protection measures.
More information: www.umm.de
Awareness booth “Stop Violence Against Women and Girls!”
30 November 2025 | 4:30–6:30 p.m. | SAP Arena
Information booth run by gender equality commissioners, the police, and Frauenhaus e. V. during a home game of the Adler Mannheim.
More information: www.mannheim.de
Workshop “Self-Assertiveness & Self-Defense for FLINTA*”
For students and staff members of the University of Mannheim.
A course offered by the equal opportunity commissioners of the AStA and the Institute of Sports to strengthen confidence and agency in situations involving (sexualized) violence.
Information & registration: University of Mannheim University Sports
Background
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women commemorates the murder of the Mirabal sisters on 25 November 1960 in the Dominican Republic. Their deaths became a symbol of resistance against violence and oppression. In 1999, the United Nations officially declared 25 November an international day of action. Since then, the color orange has stood worldwide as a sign of solidarity and hope for a life free from violence.