Updates

Association of German International Schools (AGIS) DEIJ Student Conference

19 March 2024
Summary

Last weekend, members of the Social Justice Committee, the Sunflower Club, and the Gender & Sexuality Alliance travelled to Munich to participate in a conference at the Bavarian International School. This inaugural student-led event, held on March 9th, was dedicated to the promotion of inclusion, diversity, equity, anti-bias, anti-racism and social justice in collaboration with the Association of German International Schools (AGIS). 

While there, the students made tote bags, listened to different perspectives from student speakers, socialised and formed connections with other international schools around Germany. Berlin International School students shared their insights on their plight with the Schule Ohne Rassismus, Schule Mit Courage program at their school, and as a result, we are eager to start the process at BBIS. Students from Bavarian International School shared their stories too, one discussing what it means to be transgender, while another shared their research into the gender pay gap. A highlight was listening to Ugandan activist, poet, and politician, Stella Nyanzi, share her journey with advocacy on the intersections of race and queer rights. 

The BBIS students presented on a variety of topics themselves, such as the effectiveness of student-led social justice movements in international schools, belonging and the AGIS DEIJ statement. We also led powerful guided listening circles with students and staff who attended, and stories of marginalisation and hope were shared. Overall, it was a moving experience and a great two days spent with like-minded people. Much was learnt and taught, and the students look forward to more events and opportunities to share experiences and learn with others in the German region.