Interactive Experience Transforms Jewish Life in Dorstfeld Through Escape Room Gameplay

In the heart of Dortmund-Dorstfeld, from August 29 to September 17, 2025, an extraordinary event is set to take place. The "Fixing the Boat - Finding Identity" Escape Room, a collaborative project between ADIRA, Quartiersdemokraten, and the coordination office for diversity, tolerance, and democracy of the city of Dortmund, will be hosted at Bürgerhaus Pulsschlag.

This innovative game, developed by SABRA advisory service under the auspices of the Jewish Community of Düsseldorf, aims to send a strong signal for an open society and against antisemitism. By engaging participants in collaborative puzzle-solving, the game seeks to avoid prejudices and strengthen understanding of Jewish life worlds.

The project is more than just a game, as emphasized by Friedhelm Evermann, special representative for diversity, tolerance, and democracy of the mayor. It's an invitation to learn about Jewish life, overcome prejudices, and together shape an open, respectful society.

ADIRA, the state-funded antidiscrimination counseling service under the auspices of the Jewish Community of Dortmund, is an integral part of this project. Sofia Sboui, project coordinator at ADIRA, states that the Escape Room offers citizens a fun way to engage with the topic of Jewish life and raise awareness of antisemitic prejudices.

The Quartiersdemokraten, specialized in right-wing extremism prevention and civil society cooperation in the Dorstfeld district, are also part of this project. Their involvement underscores the project's commitment to fostering local diversity and strengthening democratic engagement.

Participation in the game is diverse, including schools, social carriers, and institutions. The project relies on teamwork and communication to convey democratic values and mutual respect. After the game, there is a reflection on the topics addressed to establish personal connections and new perspectives.

It's worth noting that the financial support for the implementation of the Escape Room was not explicitly detailed in the search results provided. However, it is clear that the coordination office for diversity, tolerance, and democracy financially supported the implementation of the Escape Room in Dorstfeld.

The "Fixing the Boat - Finding Identity" Escape Room is the first of its kind in Europe to make Jewish life and identities tangible. Central questions of the game are "Who am I?" and "What makes up my identity?" These questions are not merely rhetorical, but serve as a starting point for a journey of self-discovery and understanding.

This project is part of a broader initiative, "From Prevention to Counseling: Projects and Positions that Sustainably Combat Antisemitism." The Escape Room is just one event aimed at making Jewish life visible in Dortmund, with more events planned for the second half of 2025.

In conclusion, the "Fixing the Boat - Finding Identity" Escape Room is a unique and impactful initiative that encourages open dialogue, fosters understanding, and promotes a more inclusive society. It's an invitation to all citizens of Dortmund to join in this important conversation.

Interactive Experience Transforms Jewish Life in Dorstfeld Through Escape Room Gameplay