We celebrate all colors of the rainbow with Pride@BAM

“People should be able to focus on their work — without fear, prejudice or pretending to be someone they’re not.”

Oliver Hahn, coordinator Pride@BAM Network

Diversity, tolerance, and inclusion are core values of BAM. With the launch of Pride@BAM network, BAM has taken an important step toward fostering an open, respectful, and discrimination-free workplace culture. The network offers LGBTQIA+ employees and their allies a space for connection, exchange, and mutual support. It also actively introduces LGBTQIA+ topics at all levels of the institute’s work. We spoke to Oliver Hahn from the Department of Art and Cultural Property Analysis, who helped found the network.

Oliver, what motivated you to get involved with Pride@BAM?

My coming out at BAM started with a joke — a “gay” joke told during a conversation amongst colleagues. Afterward, one of the colleagues, who I’m also close with, came to my office and said, “You shouldn’t have to put up with that!” So I addressed it directly. I told the person, “Honestly, it wasn’t that bad — I’m gay, so I think I can be the judge of that.” His reaction was sincere and respectful: he apologized. And it never happened again.

That experience left a lasting impression on me — because many people, whether queer or not, know moments like that. These seemingly small situations create discomfort or insecurity. They show how important it is to have spaces where openness, dialogue, and mutual respect are part of everyday life.

What is the goal of Pride@BAM — and how does it show up in day-to-day work

We want to create a work environment where no one feels the need to hide who they are. People should be able to focus on their work — without fear, prejudice or pretending to be someone they’re not.

Pride@BAM is both a safe space and a visible sign within the organization. We want to embed queer perspectives more firmly in our day-to-day work, promote networking, both iinside and outside the institution, and raise awareness of how much diversity enriches our work.

How does the network contribute to BAM’s organizational culture?

Safety, visibility, and awareness are key elements. That means talking openly about topics like gender identity, sexual orientation, or structural discrimination — and also examining where existing policies and processes could become more inclusive.

Our vision is a BAM where everyone can express themselves freely — regardless of whom they love or how they identify.

How can colleagues — including new employees — get involved in the network?

It’s easy! We welcome all forms of participation — whether you want to get actively involved or simply listen and connect. Everyone is welcome, regardless of whether they identify as LGBTQIA+ or as an ally.

BAM regularly participates in Berlin’s Lesbian and Gay City Festival. Why is that important?

For us, it’s much more than a symbolic gesture. Our presence at the festival has a clear message: BAM supports and empowers its LGBTQIA+ network — visibly and publicly.

We show that a scientific and technical federal institution can also be vibrant, open, and diverse. It’s about breaking down stereotypes, engaging in conversation, and presenting BAM as a modern employer that values mutual respect and inclusion.