On 28 January, the final event of our lecture series "Ver:achtsamkeit - Ethik der Popkultur" took place in Paderborn's "Deelenhaus". In the afternoon, the students participating in the three associated seminars reflected on and discussed the lecture series by collecting key topics and putting them together in a structured mind map on the floor.

One of the students' key realisations was that the event could be continued in the future, as social and political developments are constantly changing and the ethical examination of pop culture will therefore always remain relevant.

Paderborn poetry slammers kicked off the evening's artistic wrap-up. Alexander Paul started and performed on self-perception, perception of others and self-acceptance. Ophelia Kociemba then spoke about (trans) gender issues and gender roles (images). City champion Kira Lahmer then took to the stage and talked about a moving experience as an accident witness, which visibly moved the audience. The quintessence of the text was that people should help people, because you shouldn't rely on others to do it. Finally, Hendrik zur Mühlen took to the stage. He explained how and what can be done to counter political conflicts, right-wing populist, anti-democratic and conspiracy theory 'arguments' and packaged the whole thing very humorously, so that all these spoken-read artistic performances conveyed hope, courage and strength to the audience.

After a short break, the programme continued with a concert by "The Glitch Youth", whose shoegaze and indie guitar sounds created a melancholy yet exuberant atmosphere, especially among a number of obvious fans, and whose announcements drew attention to the current political situation, which the audience responded to with thunderous applause. Finally, DJ SAMMY provided a beat-heavy finale at the end, during which everyone was able to free themselves from the very captivating and serious topics, at least briefly, and even dance.

We are very grateful for the past round table event and hope that all participants, guests and those involved felt heard, learnt something and were able to surpass themselves. The research centre "C:POP", whose board organised the event, sees itself confirmed in continuing to work on these important topics together with students and in a transdisciplinary and sustainable manner.

Text: Maryam Momen Pour Tafreshi, Tina Götz

Photos final seminar session: Tina Götz

Photos poetry reading, The Glitch Youth, SAMMY: Maryam Momen Pour Tafreshi