Values Statement

The Germanic-American Institute operates with a commitment to the following principles:

Community: We foster international community building across generations and welcome all people to gather at the Haus to experience and engage in Germanic culture and hospitality. We seek to continually build stronger, personal connections between Minnesota, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.        

Language:  We believe that multi-lingualism creates better world citizens. We offer and advocate for high-quality educational programs that teach German at all levels.

Education: We provide a venue for deepening the understanding of contemporary, cross-cultural issues and the exchange of ideas between the U.S. and German-speaking people. We are committed to supporting the Twin Cities German Immersion School.

Authenticity: We strive to reflect authentic German, Austrian, and Swiss culture and work to dismantle superficial stereotypes.

Stewardship: We value historic architecture preservation and implement environmental sustainability in our programs and operations.  We take great pride in owning an historic mansion that is part of St. Paul’s legacy.

Social Responsibility: We produce cultural programs that reflect the multi-cultural, multi-faceted identity of the modern German-speaking world.  We provide education on the full spectrum of Germany’s complex and difficult past and offer a venue for respectful reflection and healing.

Celebration: We embrace the tradition of Lebenslust and joyfully celebrate our heritage through music, dance, theater, art, and cuisine.