The campaign uses social media, posters and stickers to draw attention to the increasing anti-democratic tendencies that are currently threatening more than just universities and academia - from attacks on researchers and students to the restriction of gender-equitable language and targeted attacks on funding structures.

There have also been individual incidents at the University of Wuppertal that have right-wing extremist connotations and contradict the fundamental values of diversity, respect and academic freedom. By taking part, the University of Wuppertal is reaffirming its commitment to diversity, democracy and academic freedom. "Universities are places of free thought, respect and critical debate - we must be committed to upholding these fundamental values," emphasises Rector Wolff.

Initial supporters of the campaign include the Anti-Discrimination Network at Universities, the Federal Conference of Women's and Equal Opportunities Officers at Universities (bukof) and other national and state diversity and equality networks.

Together, the universities are sending out a clear signal: in favour of academic freedom, solidarity and democracy - against hate speech and exclusion.

Further information can be found on the website of the Equal Opportunities and Diversity Unit.