Close to people | Stories from Bethel
Oliver Krop - first-time voter at the age of 51
The sun is shining and the thermometer is already over 20 degrees in the morning. 26 September 2021 is a glorious late summer's day in Bielefeld-Eckardtsheim - and perfectly matches Oliver Krop's mood. The 51-year-old is happy because this Sunday is the first time he has been allowed to cast his vote in a Bundestag election. "I think that's good," says the Bethel client before making his way to the polling station. "We people with disabilities have been neglected in elections until now."
Since 2019, around 85,000 people in Germany who, like Oliver Krop, make use of legal assistance have been able to vote in elections to the German parliament. Previously, they were excluded by federal electoral law. The fight to abolish this discrimination and establish inclusive voting rights took many years.
"I'll be back at the next general election in four years' time."
For Oliver Krop, on the other hand, the voting process is quick and uncomplicated this Sunday. In the late morning, he sets off on foot on the 15-minute walk from his home in Eckardtsheim to the polling station in the Thekoa hall. Register, tick the box, drop the ballot paper in the ballot box - done. Less than five minutes later, Oliver Krop is back on the sun-drenched square in front of the hall. "It was unusual, but good," he says.
Peter Nicolini is also pleased that Oliver Krop and other people with disabilities were able to cast their vote in a general election for the first time. He is an educator and employee at Eckardtsheim I supported living and is therefore responsible for Oliver Krop. "Being able to vote boosts self-confidence," says Peter Nicolini. "Voting is also good for Oliver Krop, because it's very important to him."
Voting means participation
Oliver Krop is interested in politics and regularly attends the political regulars' table at the Eckardtsheim meeting and leisure centre. The participants prepared for the election there under the leadership of Bethel area manager Annette Fuhrmann. Oliver Krop is also the Second Chairman of the Eckardtsheim I Supported Living Residents' Council. Whether there or among his colleagues at his work as a cemetery gardener, Oliver Krop is someone who likes to get involved and contribute.
"Belonging, being there and getting involved are important prerequisites for participation," says Annette Fuhrmann. "Being able to vote means a bit more participation in life and in society. And people learn to represent themselves, to stand up for their rights and increasingly have more confidence in themselves."
Oliver Krop is very excited about the election result and the next Federal Chancellor on this Sunday, which is so special for him. In addition to his curiosity, the man from Eckardtsheim is taking a lot of satisfaction home with him. It is the satisfaction of finally having voted and belonging. "I'll be back for the next general election in four years' time," he says as he says goodbye."
Text: Philipp Kreutzer | Photos: Thomas Richter, Philipp Kreutzer
This story simply told
Oliver Krop is 51 years old. He lives in Bielefeld-Eckardtsheim and has a legal carer. He was allowed to vote for the first time in the 2021 Bundestag election. This is due to inclusive voting rights. Oliver Krop has been happy with it since 2019. He also wants to vote in the next election.
Would you like to find out more?
About the organisation
Bethel.regional
Eckardtsheim Meeting and Leisure Centre
Bethel Political Regulars' Table
Eckardtsheimer Str. 213
33689 Bielefeld
Offers & services
- Every first Thursday of the month from 5-6.30 pm
- for people with and without disabilities
- Information and discussions on political topics
