Bonita Grupp, CEO of the textile company Trigema, has recently responded to fierce criticism from Björn Höcke, a prominent member of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, concerning the initiative 'Made in Germany – Made by Diversity.' Höcke accused the initiative of being pure hypocrisy, expressing hopes for severe economic turmoil for companies supporting it. Grupp's reaction to this critique has been firm and enlightening, shining a light on the integral role diversity plays within her company.
During the summer, Höcke launched these attacks during the campaign season, labeling the initiative as deceitful. He stated, "I hope these companies experience heavy, heavy economic turbulence.” Grupp, taken aback by these comments, articulated her disbelief, saying, "What Mr. Höcke said, I could hardly believe at first.”
Grouping asserted the real meaning behind 'Made in Germany,' countering the narrow perspective of some who believe it only pertains to products made by ethnic Germans. She stated, "There are people who unfortunately think 'Made in Germany' actually means 'Made by Germans.' That's not the case and it never has been.” Today, 35% of Trigema's employees come from multicultural backgrounds, and she warned of the consequences should these skilled workers depart.
At Trigema, numerous employees of Middle Eastern descent contribute to various functional areas within the company, particularly production. Grupp revealed, "We have 25 people of Syrian origin; of those, 20 percent now hold German citizenship.” These individuals, many of whom came from Aleppo, known for its textile industry, provide valuable skills and hold positions as sewers, printers, and logistics personnel. Grupp passionately emphasized, "Without these skilled workers, we could not maintain our production."
She elaborated on the importance of the labor these individuals provide, underscoring their qualifications and experience, many of whom had already developed skills before joining Trigema. The Syrian workers have become integral parts of the company mechanism, contributing to its success even as they navigate their new lives in Germany. Many have been assimilated completely; some have children who attend school locally, making their integration all the more significant.
Grupp also voiced her astonishment at proposals for the swift repatriation of Syrian refugees, often brought to the forefront during political debates. She articulated her difficulties with making immediate assumptions or decisions about refugee returns, stating, "It is very difficult for me to assume so quickly, whether people will be able or want to return to Syria.” The possibilities of change for minorities and women under current conditions are uncertain, posing serious moral questions about such proposals.
Addressing the current political climate, Grupp referred to discussions within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU) parties advocating for the quick return of Syrian refugees, which she views with bewilderment. She stated, "Many have integrated fully here in Germany,” reiteratively highlighting the inadequacies of drastic repatriation plans during times of instability.
Despite Höcke's negative assertions, Grupp insisted on the positive outcomes of the initiative 'Made in Germany – Made by Diversity,' asserting the benefits of diversity both socially and economically. She said, "It runs well, even though the region here is very rural.” Recognizing the intrinsic value of immigrant labor, Grupp supported policies and practices aimed at integrating refugees effectively, which includes language classes and training within her company. Trigema has allocated resources to facilitate smoother transitions for skilled workers, hosting events like Speed-Datings with refugees to explore employment opportunities.
Though the request for refugee housing has lessened over recent months, the groundwork laid by partners and community programs reflects Trigema’s commitment to diversity. Grupp noted, "The containers stand almost empty now, as the need for refugee accommodations has decreased." They had set up temporary housing structures at the company’s location to aid potential new hires.
Bonita Grupp's response to Björn Höcke’s criticisms serves as both defense and celebration of multiculturalism within her workforce. She emphasizes the necessity of skilled workers, especially within labor-intensive sectors like textile production and advocates for the needs and rights of refugees and immigrants. The openness Trigema has shown reflects broader themes of inclusion and community engagement, distinguishing their operations as socially responsible as well as economically viable.
