Role Reflection / Preparation

Read your role description carefully, develop your role, do research where you have questions, and think about the motivations behind your vision for the Gesellschaft für deutsche Sprache e.V.

Write a 350-word vision from the perspective of your role. Respond to the prompts:

• • What does the German language mean to you and for your identity? 
  • How do you envision the role and impact of a language organization such as the Society of the German Language?

1. **Nazan Akgün (37 years) - Turkish-German Second Generation**

   - Background: Growing up in Berlin as the child of Turkish guest workers, Nazan embodies the complexities of cultural integration. Despite being fluent in German, she maintains a strong connection to her Turkish roots, often code-switching between languages depending on the context.

   - Motivations: Nazan is passionate about technology and language, working as a freelance software programmer. Her experiences navigating between two cultures fuel her desire to promote inclusivity and understanding within German society.

   - Consider: How do you navigate between different linguistic and cultural identities in your daily life? What are some challenges and rewards of maintaining a multicultural identity?

2. **Johannes von Merklitz (62 years) - Professor for German literature, fan of Jacob Grimm and Language societies**

   - Background: Hailing from a lineage of nobility, Johannes has always been deeply invested in preserving German heritage. His academic pursuits focus on German literature, with a particular admiration for Jacob Grimm and his contributions to linguistics.

   - Motivations: Johannes sees language societies as guardians of tradition and values, advocating for their role in maintaining linguistic purity. His aristocratic background shapes his belief in the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

- Consider: What is the significance of Jacob Grimm's work in shaping your views on language preservation? How can language societies contribute to the evolution of German in a globalized world? How can a balance between linguistic tradition and innovation in contemporary society be achieved?

3. **Sophie Hörbiger (23 years) – Austrian heritage**

   - Background: Raised in Munich with Austrian parents, Sophie experienced firsthand the linguistic differences between regions. Despite feeling more German than Austrian, she cherishes her cultural heritage and actively volunteers to help refugees integrate through language education.

   - Motivations: Sophie is passionate about breaking down linguistic barriers and fostering inclusivity within the German-speaking community. Her commitment to teaching German reflects her belief in the transformative power of language in building bridges between cultures.

   - Consider: How does the experience from your volunteer work teaching German to refugees shape you. How do language and culture intersect in the process of integration? What role do regional dialects play in shaping identity and community among immigrants in Germany?

4. **Michelle Yeoh (36 years) - American who lives and works in Germany and just got citizenship**

   - Background: Having obtained German citizenship through marriage, Michelle brings a global perspective to her research on language and power dynamics. Her family history, including her grandfather's involvement in World War II, instilled in her a deep sense of historical awareness.

   - Motivations: Michelle is driven by a desire to understand how language shapes societal structures and influences individual identities. Her interdisciplinary approach to linguistics reflects her belief in the interconnectedness of language, culture, and power dynamics.

   - Consider: How would you describe the complexities of language and identity in your personal journey to becoming a German citizen? How do historical narratives shape our understanding of language and power? What role does multilingualism play in fostering empathy and understanding across cultural divides?

5. **Diana Thomas (46 years) - Representative of LGBQ+ community**

   - Background: Diana has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in Berlin, where she was one of the first same-sex couples to marry after legalization. Her activism stems from personal experiences of discrimination and a commitment to creating a more inclusive society.

   - Motivations: Diana believes that language plays a crucial role in affirming and validating diverse identities within the LGBTQ+ community. Her efforts to promote inclusive language reflect a broader commitment to social justice and equality.

   - Consider: How does language play a role in promoting LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance? How can inclusive language practices contribute to a more equitable society? What are strategies for challenging heteronormative language norms in public discourse?

6. **Markus Müller (68 years) - German man who lives in Berlin**

   - Background: As a resident of Chemnitz, Markus's perspective on immigration and cultural change is shaped by his experiences in East Germany. Despite facing economic challenges after reunification, he remains steadfast in his belief in preserving German culture and identity.

   - Motivations: Markus's support for the AfD stems from concerns about the perceived dilution of German culture and values. His nostalgia for the past is intertwined with fears about the future, driving his political convictions and advocacy for stricter immigration policies.

   - Consider: Reflect on the societal changes you’ve witnessed since reunification and their impact on German identity. How do demographic shifts and globalization challenge traditional notions of national culture? What are your hopes and concerns for the future of Germany in an increasingly interconnected world?

7. **Andrea Meyer (41 years) - German woman with two kids**

   - Background: Andrea's multicultural upbringing, coupled with her experiences studying and working abroad, has instilled in her a deep appreciation for diversity. Her commitment to volunteer work reflects her belief in the importance of fostering intercultural understanding.

   - Motivations: Andrea is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can come together to learn and grow. Her involvement in multicultural projects reflects her dedication to building bridges between different communities.

   - Consider: How does language facilitate dialogue and understanding among people with diverse cultural backgrounds? What roles does education play in promoting intercultural harmony and tolerance in society?

8. **Sayid Abadi (19 years) - Syrian refugee**

   - Background: Sayid's journey as a refugee fleeing war-torn Syria has been marked by hardship and uncertainty. Despite facing language barriers and prejudice, he remains hopeful for a better future in Germany, where he dreams of reuniting with his family.

   - Motivations: Sayid's resilience in the face of adversity underscores the transformative power of language in overcoming barriers and building connections. His experiences highlight the importance of empathy and compassion in welcoming newcomers and fostering integration.

   - Consider: How does language proficiency impact your sense of belonging and integration? What are the challenges you’ve faced in overcoming linguistic and cultural barriers and what are your hopes for the future?

9. **Tanya Liberman (87 years) - elderly Jewish lady**

   - Background: Tanya's upbringing in Lviv (where she grew up in a Yiddish-speaking neighborhood) during World War II exposed her to the complexities of language and identity in times of conflict. Her clandestine efforts to learn German as a child were driven by a desire for survival and connection.

   - Motivations: Tanya's work as a translator reflects her commitment to preserving cultural heritage and bridging divides between communities. Her experiences as a Yiddish speaker inform her advocacy for linguistic diversity and understanding in a rapidly changing world.

   - Consider: How does your childhood in Lviv illustrate the importance of language in preserving cultural identity? How does your work as a translator contribute to cross-cultural understanding and reconciliation? Discuss the role of language in shaping individual and collective memory in the aftermath of war and displacement.

10. **Moritz Huber (50 years) - Bavarian**

    - Background: Moritz's deep-rooted ties to Bavarian culture are evident in his professional and personal life. His love for regional folklore and dialects reflects a profound connection to his Bavarian heritage, which he proudly shares through music and marketing.

    - Motivations: Moritz's passion for preserving Bavarian traditions underscores the importance of local dialects in shaping regional identity. His involvement in cultural activities highlights the role of language in fostering a sense of belonging and community among Bavarians.

    - Consider: Reflect on the role of Bavarian dialects in preserving regional identity and cultural heritage. How do traditional folk songs and customs contribute to a sense of belonging among Bavarians? What are the challenges and opportunities of preserving linguistic diversity in an increasingly globalized world?