Aminata Touré made history as Germany’s first black female cabinet minister in Schleswig-Holstein, taking charge of six crucial portfolios. The 29-year-old Green Party politician now oversees social affairs, youth, family, senior citizens, integration, and equality.
Breaking Barriers: From Refugee Child to Pioneering Minister
Born to Malian refugees in 1992, Touré spent her early years in German refugee quarters. Her family lived under constant deportation threats until receiving German citizenship twelve years later. Despite these challenges, she pursued her passion for political science at university.
“Sometimes my family was just hanging on, waiting from one two-week period to the next, to hear whether our stay in Germany would be tolerated,” Touré recalled. Her mother, though academically qualified, worked as a cleaner due to unrecognized credentials.
Tackling Racism and Social Inequality Head-On
Touré pledges to address deep-rooted racism in German society while promoting social equality. Her appointment signals a new era of cooperation between the Christian Democrats and Greens in Schleswig-Holstein’s coalition government.
“As a black woman in this society, you are often underestimated and treated as a stereotype,” she stated in a recent interview. Nevertheless, she considers her appointment a “downright privilege” and approaches her responsibilities with “200% passion.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
Touré’s presence in German politics resonates deeply with minority communities. During a campaign event, she encountered a young black girl whose reaction touched her profoundly.
“Her mother told me how amazed she was to see me, a black woman on television,” Touré shared with Der Spiegel. “I gave her a massive hug, almost crying because I realized what it meant for that girl.”
Making History Beyond Politics: First Minister on Vogue Germany
Further breaking barriers, Touré became the first minister featured on Vogue Germany’s cover in December 2022. She used this platform to discuss her vision for diversity in German politics and her commitment to transparent policymaking.
