2021. Ina Scharrenbach, Minister for Home Affairs, Local Government, Construction and Digitalization of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, stood in front of us in the intombi backyard, smiled and asked: “Are you actually politically active?” We looked at each other for a moment – a few hesitant glances, then the collective shaking of the head: “Probably not. Maybe as an election worker.”

But today? Today I would answer differently. Because I know so many young women who raise their voices. They campaign for education, equal rights or sustainability. They get involved in clubs, start social projects and draw attention to grievances. Maybe not always on election posters or in talk shows – but where it really counts: in everyday life, in their community and online. So I would now say about myself: yes, I am politically active! It wasn’t always like that for us women!

Women in Germany have only been able to vote and be elected in the traditional way since 1919. Back then, by the way, they were only allowed to do so from the age of 20 (see Bundestag.de). How did this come about? It was a decision on November 12, 1918, after the end of the First World War, that made this step possible. Women became really vocal, they founded clubs, organized events, wrote political papers or joined parties. In 1975, the law was changed again so that voting became possible from the age of 18.

In the beginning, it was really not easy to implement laws for women. The first laws dealt with issues such as social justice and the rights of children, workers and mothers. Unfortunately, World War II came along and put a big damper on strong women’s plans. Can you imagine standing up for something so loudly that it brings about political change?

The first woman to give a speech in parliament was Marie Juchacz on February 19, 1919. She said it like this: “Gentlemen and ladies! This is the first time in Germany that a woman can speak to the people in parliament as a free and equal person. […] What this government has done was a matter of course: it has given women what had been unjustly withheld from them until then.” (see Bundestag.de)

Achieve more together 👯‍♀️

But voting isn’t just about putting a cross on a piece of paper. It’s about being part of a community that has a say as a young woman. Whether you’re committed to climate protection, education or social justice – your voice is important. And the best part? You’re not alone!

Don’t take your voice for granted, treat it as valuable. 🚀

We use our time machine and come to the here and now: Today you can have a say in who sits in the Bundestag, who governs your city and how the future will be shaped. But wait a minute – does everyone actually take advantage of this opportunity? In fact, many young people don’t vote. Why? Often because they think their vote won’t change anything anyway. But here’s the twist: We as young voters in particular have the power to really make a difference. Because if more of us vote, our view of the world will also be more strongly represented in politics.

What if you had no voice ❓

Imagine not being able to say what is important to you. Not having a say in issues that affect your life. Sounds pretty unfair, doesn’t it? That’s exactly why it’s so valuable that you can vote today. And who knows – maybe your decision will inspire others to get involved too. Because every big change starts with a single voice. Maybe it’s yours.

And now❓

Back then, during the pandemic, we met with high school graduates and State Minister Scharrenbach and asked what we could do to support young women in NRW more. The topics we addressed are still highly relevant. Here you can get an insight into our meeting: <a href=”https://intombi.de/blog/presse/abiturientinnen-in-der-pandemie-landesministerin-scharrenbach-geht-ins-gespraech/”>High school graduates in the pandemic and State Minister Scharrenbach talk</a>

Maybe no one has ever asked you, “Are you politically active?” But maybe you are involved in issues that are important to you. Maybe you have taken sides with someone else or supported a cause. If so, the answer is yes, you are political – in your own way. So don’t be afraid to vote this weekend and use your voice to help others.

👉 If you were Chancellor for a day – what would you change first?