Girls in Politics

On Friday, October 10th, 2025, we – Selina and Nahelle from class 4a – took  part in the “Girls in Politics” day with some other girls from two other schools. We met at 8:00 a.m. and headed to the Rathaus at 8:30, where we were welcomed by Elisabeth Mayr, the Deputy Mayor of Innsbruck. She was very kind and explained everything so clearly that we could understand it all very well.

When we arrived, we received small goodie bags made from recycled posters, filled with thoughtful gifts. In her office, we got to look around, and she even gave us her mobile phone number, telling us that we could call her anytime. We also talked about topics that are important to us in politics — such as women’s rights, gender equality, and why men often earn more than women for the same work. It was really interesting to share our thoughts and hear what the other girls had to say.

Later, we visited the large meeting room where the city council discusses important issues about Innsbruck. Our guide told us a funny story about how the politicians once had to work there for a whole week, ordering pizza in the evening. Afterwards, we were allowed to go out onto the big balcony — something very special, because before us, only men (and one woman) had ever been there, but never before had there been a group of girls or women.

The highlight for many of us was sitting in the chair of the Federal President! Around 10:00, we left the Rathaus and went to the Landhaus, where another friendly guide welcomed us. We walked up a big staircase with a red carpet and admired beautiful Greek statues in the corners. We even got to visit an office that visitors normally aren’t allowed to enter. Finally, we went into the plenum and learned more about the historic building. It was cool and fascinating to see how politics works up close.

Overall, it was a very special and inspiring day, and we learned a lot about politics, equality, and the work done in our city.