Neighbourhood Mothers condemns the racist gestures and behaviour of Members of Parliament. Mocking physical features is not a joke, it’s racism and it hurts people.
When those who are in power do racist gestures, they normalize racism and as a result many children and adults have to now face racist behaviour in schools, workplaces, social media and in the streets. This has to stop. Human rights belong to everyone and racism and discrimination is prohibited by law. Our leaders must do better. Finland is the country of all of us.
If you encounter racism, don’t be alone!
We strongly encourage you to report racist behavior. Racism and discrimination are prohibited by the Non-Discrimination Act, and racist acts may constitute a criminal offense.
ACTION GUIDELINES
- Discrimination at school
- Contact the teacher, school counselor, or principal.
- Schools have equality and non-discrimination plans; find out how the school promises to act if there is bullying or racism.
- Discrimination at work
- First contact your supervisor.
- If you do not get help from them, contact their supervisor.
- If they cannot help you, contact the occupational safety and health representative or shop steward at your workplace.
- If the issue cannot be resolved at your workplace, contact the occupational safety and health district in your area or your trade union.
- National emergency number for occupational safety and health authorities: 0295 016 620
- Outside of work or school
- Contact the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman if you experience discrimination outside of work or if you have noticed discrimination somewhere else. You can also contact them on behalf of another person or group. Hotline on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.: 0295 666 817 or email yvv@oikeus.fi
- You can also file a criminal complaint, in which case the matter will be referred to the police and then to the courts.
- If you feel that you have been the victim of discrimination, contact the Victim Support Hotline: Telephone hotline in Finnish 116006.
If you witness racism, support the victim.
If you experience racism, talk with someone you trust.