Renewed markers installed at playgrounds across Cologne
In the vibrant city of Cologne, a debate is unfolding about the renaming of playgrounds to "play and action areas." This discussion, which has been ongoing for several days, reflects a broader conversation about community identity and the use of public spaces.
The city administration recently unveiled a new design for signs at over 700 playgrounds, omitting the term "playground." This move is justified as an attempt to "take into account the expanded inclusion idea." The new signs are to be labelled as "play and action areas."
Maja Tölke, chairwoman of the Youth Council, is a strong advocate for this change. She believes that the term "action area" suggests movement, which is what young people want. Tölke asserts that it's important for young people to have freedoms for their development. She also emphasises that adults are not primarily involved in this matter, as the areas are mainly used by young people.
However, Cologne's Mayor, Henriette Reker, has distanced herself from the project. She personally finds the term "playground" clear and understandable. Mayor Reker wants the Cologne city council to decide on the renaming, as the outcome of their decision regarding the renaming is uncertain.
The North Rhine-Westphalia Youth Council is defending the new terminology for playgrounds in Cologne. Tölke finds the planned new sign with the inscription "play and action area" fitting and appropriate. She states that adults might think they know better about the concerns of young people, and this move is a step towards acknowledging their perspectives.
The debate is ongoing, indicating that no final decision has yet been made on the matter. The city is actively engaged in this discussion, reflecting a broader conversation about community identity and the use of public spaces. It's a significant decision that could shape the city's future and its approach to catering to its youngest residents.
In the midst of this discourse, Maja Tölke proposes a shift in the terminology for playgrounds, advocating for "play and action areas." She believes this change not only aligns with the desires of young people for more movement, but also signifies a step towards acknowledging their unique lifestyle and home-and-garden preferences within the community. On the other hand, Cologne's Mayor, Henriette Reker, has expressed her preference for maintaining the traditional "playground" label, reflecting a potential divide in perspectives on this home-and-garden and lifestyle issue.
