The integration prize was awarded for the first time in the assembly hall in Salzgitter-Bad and did not mark the end of the intercultural week, which will take place in Lebenstedt in the fall. The change of venue between Lebenstedt and Salzgitter-Bad was just as new as the name of the integration prize, which from now on will be called "Bunte Sole". Around 30 citizens had submitted suggestions for the renaming. A varied entertainment program with the play "Öztürks III: Die Traumhochzeit" and many surprises rounded off the award ceremony.
Stefan Klein, First Mayor of the city of Salzgitter, thanked all the volunteers for their commitment: "You are all doing a great job for integration and therefore also for our city," he emphasized. The refugees were welcomed in 2015 with an exemplary welcoming culture, outstanding commitment and a willingness to help. Building on this, it has since been possible to integrate these children, women and men into the community and give them a new home. "I would like to thank you all very much for this on behalf of the city of Salzgitter," said the First Mayor.
The laudatory speech for Jumpers was given by Dincer Dinc, integration guide for the city of Salzgitter, who hosted the evening together with Kevin Anton from the Integration and Skilled Workers Department. Dincer Dinc emphasized that Jumpers is active in a variety of ways and supports children, young people and families in discovering their potential and abilities. Those responsible and committed at Jumpers create prospects, enable meaningful leisure activities and thereby also convey respect, a sense of responsibility and appreciation. The childcare services for children and young people enrich the city's offerings.
The decision to award and rename the integration prize was made by a jury consisting of a representative of the Citizens' Service for Migrants, the Head of Social Affairs, the Salzgitter Children and Family Representative, two members of the Salzgitter Integration Network and a member of the Salzgitter Social Affairs and Integration Committee. As a token of appreciation and spokesperson for the jury, Christa Frenzel, First City Councillor of the City of Salzgitter, presented a voucher for the best suggestion for renaming the integration prize.
The Citizens' Service for Migrants, which initiated the awarding of the Integration Prize, and the city of Salzgitter have honored volunteers with the Integration Prize for the fifth time. The award recognizes outstanding achievements that promote integration. The Integration Prize was first awarded in 2013 to the couple Edith and Christel Otto Tietge. In 2014, the Mütterzentrum was honored. In 2015, the BC Tigers received this award. In 2016, the married couple Anne-Rose and Hans-Jürgen Kothe received the prize, endowed with 1,000 euros, for their commitment to helping refugees.