Accessibility

Where We Stand

The Tieranatomisches Theater aims to be a welcoming space for everyone who comes together here in different ways and engages in open exchange. At the same time, we need to be clear: we are far from being perfect, even from being close to it. Accessibility is an ongoing process for us, one that requires continuous reflection, learning, and change.

Our commitment is to contribute to an environment that is as free as possible from discrimination and barriers.

Accessibility as Co-Creation

Accessibility is not an additional layer or a form of translation applied after the fact. It is part of how knowledge is produced.

We understand accessibility as an evolving, research-led practice grounded in co-creation. This means that formats, methods, and forms of communication are developed together with those who are directly affected by barriers, rather than being designed for them.

This shift moves accessibility away from the idea of granting access to existing knowledge, towards the shared production of knowledge itself, in line with the principles of participation and inclusion outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Programmes such as DEEP_ABILITIES are central to this approach. They foster disability-centred forms of knowledge production and exchange, developed together with collaborators rather than for them.

Physical Access

With the exception of the seating and the gallery in the historic anatomical lecture hall, all areas of the building are accessible for people who use mobility aids or prefer to avoid stairs. An elevator connects the ground and upper floors, and a designated parking space is available for visitors with the appropriate permit.

The Tieranatomisches Theater is a listed monument. Conservation requirements and accessibility needs can come into conflict. At the same time, we understand that exclusion is often embedded in historical architecture. We believe that a monument is only meaningful in the present if it is accessible to everyone, and we are committed to working against these limitations wherever possible.

Language and Communication

We aim to avoid discriminatory language, including ableist terminology, and we try not to rely on deficit-oriented expressions. This sometimes leads us to avoid terms that are widely used.

At the same time, we respect and adopt terminology when it is introduced by collaborators and partners who are themselves affected by this language.

We understand language as shaped by long histories of exclusion. Gender bias, racism, and ableism are deeply embedded in many linguistic structures. Even seemingly neutral metaphors can privilege certain perspectives, such as visual modes of understanding that dominate Western scientific traditions. In our daily work, we try to use language with care and awareness.

We recognize that this approach can make texts less familiar or immediately accessible. We aim for a balance, while also inviting our audiences and collaborators to reflect critically on language and remain open to unfamiliar terms.

Multilingual Access

As a matter of principle, we strive to offer multilingual formats in exhibitions and events. German and English are frequently used, but not exclusively.

The languages we provide depend on the context of each project and the backgrounds of those involved. This is particularly important when working with historically marginalised communities, where language access is essential for meaningful participation and exchange.

Easy Read and Alternative Formats

We are increasingly implementing Easy Read versions of texts and exhibition materials to improve access for people with learning disabilities. This work is ongoing and part of a broader effort to develop formats that support different ways of engaging with content. Currently, we use A.I. assisted tools to convert texts into Easy Read versions. However, we still need to make those texts comply with official Easy Read standards.

Content Awareness

The topics we address often involve sensitive content, including colonial violence, histories of science, and questions of personal and collective identity. Some of these themes are part of broader societal conflicts.

We believe these topics should be presented in ways that enable critical engagement while giving space to the perspectives of those directly affected. This includes avoiding harmful forms of representation and respecting the rights of both living and deceased individuals. For this reason, certain materials or “objects” are not displayed.

We also aim to inform visitors in advance about what to expect, including potentially sensitive or triggering content, so that informed decisions about participation are possible.

Historical Awareness

The Tieranatomisches Theater is a monument that reflects the entanglement of architecture, science, and society. It is also part of histories that include Prussian nationalism and militarism, as well as the use and killing of animals for teaching and research.

We do not seek to obscure these histories. Instead, they form an important part of our work and are approached through critical reflection and interpretation.

Feedback and Contact

Accessibility requires structural change and continuous dialogue. We welcome feedback, critique, and suggestions.

If you experience discriminatory or harmful behavior in our programme, or from staff members or visitors, please contact us at:
tieranatomisches-theater@hu-berlin.de