However, Germany's status as a social state does not necessarily mean that all its people escape disadvantage and discrimination. It sometimes seems that disturbing acts of violence and discrimination can be read about or witnessed here on a daily basis. I feel as if my eyes have been opened widely. There are positive relationships which offer evidence that immigrants can make supported, fulfilling homes here. But Germany cannot be satisfied just to accept the existence of Turkish stores and food stands in all of its cities and neighborhoods.
Immigrants do more than sell apples and oranges.
The social net must allow room for this group of people, for all of its immigrants, and the contributions as well as needs they bring. It is hopeful to see that a few organizations, some of which I have described here, are taking up this task of showing German society that immigrants are a significant and human part of it, deserving of the attention now beginning to be paid to their lives' concerns. Emily Voelckers Powell graduated from SSA in June 1995 with her Masters in Social Administration. She is nearing the end of her 10-month social services internship in Hamburg, supported by Germany's Korber Foundation.