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Discrimination and Racism – two terms that, unfortunately, are often emphasized in Austria, especially in rural areas. That’s why today I’m sharing an anti-discrimination post to express some of my thoughts on this important topic.

Whether it’s about homosexuality, foreigners, or members of the LGBTQ+ community, often just one single difference is enough to shove someone into a box and exclude them.

However, racism and discrimination are based on characteristics that a person cannot influence. None of us have the choice of where we come into this world, what skin color we have, or what sexual orientation we are assigned. And even if one could choose, it would ultimately be a personal decision that belongs to each individual.

It would be just as unfair to discriminate against someone for having a supposedly "too big" nose or for other outward features they cannot control.

People should be judged based on their actions – not based on what they inherently possess. And when I say we should judge based on actions, I do not mean that an entire ethnic group should be condemned because a single individual commits a crime.

It seems that many are overwhelmed when it comes to change. Yes, there is an increase in immigration – triggered by disasters and wars. These people are seeking protection and a better life. Yes, there is also a growing visibility of homosexual people and the LGBTQ+ community, but this is not solely because society is changing. Rather, many are only now finding the courage to come out, having faced much greater stigma and danger in the past. It is their right to live their identity, and we need to acknowledge and appreciate the diversity that these differences bring.

I believe it’s about time that societal perception shifts. We often struggle even to establish basic equality between men and women. Women are still disadvantaged – whether in the workplace, in income, or in society at large. The fight for equality is far from over, and we should focus our energy on creating an environment where all individuals, regardless of their origin, sexual orientation, or gender, have equal opportunities and rights.

Closing Words

Any form of discrimination undermines the fundamental values of freedom and equality that a just society should embody.