Five years of VRRbunt: How diversity became visible at VRR The beginning of a strong idea
In 2020, Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Ruhr (VRR) came up with an idea to make the workplace more diverse and open. Two employees wondered why there was still no place for queer colleagues to meet and exchange ideas. Their idea fell on receptive ears: The Executive Board duo supported the idea and VRRbunt was founded on Coming Out Day in October 2020. Since then, the network has been committed to making diversity visible and creating a space in which all employees can be themselves.
The beginning of a strong idea
Space for encounters and visibility
VRRbunt is now an integral part of VRR's corporate culture. This is where conversations, mutual support and valuable encounters take place. The network creates trust and gives queer people a voice within the company.
Such places are important because many people still experience marginalisation or prejudice in their everyday lives. VRRbunt ensures that openness and acceptance are a livingreality at VRR - in everyday working life and in public perception.
What has been achieved in five years
VRRbunt has generated a lot of momentum since it was founded. The network has initiated topics such as the introduction of an equal opportunities officer. VRRbunt also helped to organise the popular internal in-house exhibition, where employees network and present their work.
VRR is also taking a stance externally: the logo in rainbow colours, banners on ticket machines and posts on social media channels make support for the queer community visible. Participation in the Christopher Street Days in Cologne and Düsseldorf was particularly impressive. Around 50 VRR employees have taken part so far, promoting diversity with energy, joy and conviction.
Looking to the future
VRRbunt wants to grow and develop further. Over the next few years, the network would like to promote dialogue with queer groups from other transport companies and realise new projects. There are many ideas: from creative campaigns in everyday life to a train in rainbow colours or a float of its own at the next CSD, together with the private association öffisbunt which was set up by the same initiators who founded VRRbunt.
