Uncomfortable, loud, courageous - and ‘unbearable’ for a system that mostly only recognised equality on paper.

In the 1980s, independent women's groups were founded in the GDR that were not satisfied with state slogans. They campaigned for peace, democracy and human rights - and questioned the official narrative of equality. They protested against the arms race, denounced discrimination against lesbians and demanded real equality. Despite surveillance, repression and social rejection, they remained unwavering in their commitment. These groups developed into a nationwide movement. In 1989/90, they became part of the peaceful revolution, took their seats at the round tables and fought for women's shelters, equal career opportunities, social security and a critical examination of existing power relations.

The exhibition ‘Together we are unbearable’ brings their stories to Dresden. Documents, photographs and moving interviews show how women fought for their rights back then - and why their commitment is far from over. 

Their struggle is still relevant today: after all, how equal is our society really? Economic inequality, access to education, housing policy and environmental crises are still challenges for social justice. The exhibition invites you to think about these questions further - and to continue the dialogue.

The exhibition ‘Together we are unbearable’ brings their stories to Dresden. Documents, photographs and moving interviews show how women fought for their rights back then - and why their commitment is far from over. 

Their struggle is still relevant today: after all, how equal is our society really? Economic inequality, access to education, housing policy and environmental crises are still challenges for social justice. The exhibition invites you to think about these questions further - and to continue the dialogue.

Exhibition period:
📅 21 July - 20 August 2025