A haven for self-organized creativity. That’s the Altes Sportamt in Bremen. This isn’t just a building. It’s a story of community resilience. A testament to collective action.
The Altes Sportamt is a self-managed non-commercial venue. It offers space for concerts workshops and more. Individuals and groups organize events here. They participate in open forums. They simply attend events. Decisions are made collectively in open forums. This usually follows a consensus principle. Differing opinions are heard and discussed. The goal is to break hierarchical patterns. To give everyone a voice in shaping the space. Events are generally free and there are no admission controls.
The Altes Sportamt acknowledges that even left-leaning spaces are not immune to discrimination. An awareness concept aims to create a safer environment. After a long period of interim use and subsequent occupation. A lease agreement with the city of Bremen was signed in 2017. The Altes Sportamt remains independent. It is not subject to any ministry or other authority. The Altes Sportamt also decided not to accept any funding. Costs and repairs are covered through donations. This is a counter-model to the mainstream cultural scene. Often characterized by economic dependencies and clear hierarchies. The Altes Sportamt sees itself as a political space. A place where people can organize freely develop skills and implement ideas.
All activities are voluntary. Use of the space is free. There is no pressure to consume. The Altes Sportamt is open to new ideas. Everyone is invited to participate or simply visit. In January a group of Nazis took a photo in front of the Altes Sportamt. They spread it on social media. Similar incidents occurred at the Sielwallhaus. Right-wing attacks are not uncommon in Bremen. The attacks on the Ölhafen Wagenplatz and the arson attack on the Die Friese youth center in 2020 highlight this. Investigations into Die Friese show that reliance on state authorities isn’t enough. The Altes Sportamt continues to self-organize. They are also networking with other groups and projects. The Altes Sportamt is a symbol of resistance and community. It stands against intimidation and stands in solidarity with victims of right-wing violence. They invite everyone to experience their unique space. Come and see the heart of Bremen’s self-organized culture. The Altes Sportamt awaits you.