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In Lohne, the integration throne is brought to life – a celebratory tribute!
The integration throne is celebrated at the Lohner Schützenfest. Carsten Seep, king with disabilities, opens the ball.
In Lohne, the integration throne is brought to life – a celebratory tribute!
A very special chapter of integration is being written today in the small town of Lohne in the Vechta district. Every year at the Schützenfest an integration throne is awarded, which has been an integral part of the tradition for 25 years now. The current holder of the throne, Carsten Seep, will be farewelled with festivities today. Seep, who has been coming to the shooting festival for over 20 years and lives with a mental disability, was named Integration Shooting King and opened the ball in the festival tent with his shooting queen, Julia Gündel. Today is his last day in office, on which he will ceremoniously drive to Schützenplatz in a carriage.
The concept of the integration throne, which is part of the Lohner Schützenfest, was initiated in 1996. It was launched by Burkhard Krapp, the then president of the shooting club, and aims to enable people with disabilities to actively participate in the celebrations and events of the shooting festival. Interested delegations from other regions regularly travel to Lohne to observe the successful integration project, which represents a model in society for the recognition of people with disabilities, as NDR reports.
An important sign of integration
The Integration Throne not only ensures improved visibility for people with disabilities, but also promotes togetherness. Disabled and non-disabled people take turns shooting, which breaks down prejudices and enables new contacts. The integration group has existed for 39 years and is financially supported by the Aloys Diekstall Foundation. Another highlight is imminent: On November 19, 2023, this important part of the Lohne Schützenfest will be celebrated with a ball, which will be musically accompanied by the Lohne marching band, [OM-Online](https://www.om-online.de/om/integrationsthron-lohne-beäst-seit-25-jahren-und- Feiert-einen-ball-143286) reports.
Part of the celebrations consists of a festive chop meal after the town hall reception and participation in various parades. There are also current developments in other cities where events similar to those in Dinklage are taking place, which are also considered inclusive. The cohesion between different social groups is very important here and has established itself as a positive force in society.
Social participation in sport
Interestingly, a survey shows that a majority of the population supports more inclusive education policies, but often with concerns about current conditions. Despite all efforts, there is still a lot to be done in Germany to achieve comprehensive inclusion in sport, as bpb has also found. Not only barrier-free sports facilities, but also appropriate training for trainers play a crucial role.
In Lohne, the actors are not only committed to improving the visibility of people with disabilities, but also want to show that sporting activities are accessible to everyone. The shooting festival is an excellent example of how communal celebrations and competitive events can be successfully integrated.
Overall, the Schützenfest in Lohne impressively shows how integration can be successful in everyday life. With commitment, a sense of community and a pinch of festive spirit, a message is sent that goes far beyond Lohne's borders.