Collective farms in Kassel have been networking for two and a half years. They want to make their goals known through joint campaigns: equal decision-making structures and shared ownership in the workplace.
In Kassel there are currently around 20 collective farms. That means: Self-organization in the workplace without a boss. Or everyone is “the boss” and shares responsibility. Depends a bit, who you ask. We had the chance to ask last Friday.
The new design concept for the ABC bookstore shop window was inaugurated with a small celebration. Two companies will be presenting there for two weeks Kassel collectives, promote themselves and, above all, the idea of a hierarchy-free working world. It starts with the Kurbad collective café and the Oberkaufungen members' shop, dust Mila O. There was also fresh espresso and the opportunity, to exchange ideas with members of the Kassel collectives, and take a first look at the newly unveiled shop window.
Currently part of the collective network are: 14 Companies from Kassel and the surrounding area. In addition to businesses in the retail or catering sectors, this also includes a farm, two conference centers, the autonomous women's shelter, the Lossetal day care or the eigenMicht association.
The eigenMicht association offers support for traumatized women and trans*. Although your club formally needs a board of directors, At eigenMicht, all major decisions would be made by consensus, so in agreement with the entire team, says Esther.
“For us, everyone is an employee and an employer at the same time. We pay attention to it, that all work is valued equally and everyone receives the same hourly wage.”
Above all, she hopes that the networking of the Kassel collectives will bring an end to the disorganized coexistence. Ultimately, it is in the interest of all collectives to make this form of work better known.
Of the current 14 Not all companies are constantly active or present at the monthly meetings, but each individual feels connected to the common cause, Verena reports about the networking. It has been around for around two and a half years and has worked well even during the difficult Corona period. The window design is now, After a bike ride and a short hike to various networking companies, the third action, to draw attention to the Kassel collectives. All, who wanted to become part of the structure, are cordially invited to do so.
