The deep roots of racism in Finland don’t stop in Santa Lucia by Thanos Kalamidas

In Finland, the Santa Lucia celebrations are a beloved tradition, a moment to embrace light in the darkness of winter, symbolizing hope, community, and the values of unity. Every year, a young woman is chosen to don the crown of candles and represent Santa Lucia, embodying grace, purity, and compassion. This year, however, the choice of a girl of African descent to play the role of Santa Lucia has sparked an alarming wave of racist reactions, laying bare the deep-seated racism that persists in Finnish society.

For a country often lauded for its progressive values and equality, the backlash has been a stark reminder of how fragile the veneer of inclusivity can be. The online vitriol, ranging from overt slurs to thinly veiled critiques disguised as concerns about "tradition" is a sobering reflection of how deeply entrenched prejudice remains, even in a nation that prides itself on tolerance and diversity.

This reaction is not merely about Santa Lucia; it is about who is considered Finnish enough to represent cherished cultural symbols. The outcry reveals a narrow, exclusionary definition of Finnish identity, one that denies the reality of an increasingly multicultural society. By choosing a girl of African descent for this role, the organizers have taken a bold step forward, challenging outdated notions and opening the door for a more inclusive interpretation of tradition. Yet, the backlash shows how far we still have to go.

It is worth examining why this particular choice has provoked such hostility. Santa Lucia is a figure steeped in history and mythology, originating from Italy but celebrated across Scandinavia. In Finland, she has become a cultural icon, her image often portrayed with distinctly Nordic features. For many, she represents an idealized version of Finnish womanhood, tied to a sense of national identity that some feel is being "erased" or "threatened" by diversity. But this perspective is both ahistorical and hypocritical. Cultural traditions evolve; they are not static relics. To argue that Santa Lucia must conform to a specific racial or ethnic mold is to misunderstand the very nature of cultural expression.

Moreover, this incident is not an isolated one. It is part of a broader pattern of resistance to multiculturalism in Finland. Immigrants and people of colour frequently face discrimination, whether in the workplace, in schools, or on the streets. Studies consistently show that racial minorities in Finland experience higher rates of unemployment and are disproportionately targeted by law enforcement. Racism here is not always overt; it often hides behind polite smiles and passive-aggressive remarks, manifesting in structural inequalities and subtle acts of exclusion.

The backlash against Santa Lucia is also a reflection of the growing influence of far-right ideologies in Europe, including Finland. These groups capitalize on economic anxieties and fears of cultural change, promoting a narrative of "us versus them" that fuels division and hostility. The vitriolic reactions to this year's Santa Lucia are a chilling reminder of how easily such narratives can take hold, even in societies that pride themselves on egalitarian values.

But amidst the negativity, there is also hope. The decision to select a girl of African roots for this role was not made in a vacuum; it reflects the efforts of individuals and organizations committed to promoting inclusivity and challenging stereotypes. It is a testament to the resilience and courage of those who believe in a more inclusive Finland, one where tradition can coexist with diversity.

The Santa Lucia controversy is a call to action for all Finns. It is a moment to confront the uncomfortable truths about racism in our society and to ask ourselves what kind of nation we want to be. Do we want to cling to exclusionary notions of identity, or do we want to embrace the richness that comes from diversity? The answer will shape the future of Finland, not just in how we celebrate Santa Lucia, but in how we define ourselves as a people.

For those who feel that this choice diminishes the tradition of Santa Lucia, perhaps it is time to reflect on what the celebration truly stands for. Santa Lucia is a symbol of light and hope, a reminder of our shared humanity in the darkest of times. To reject someone based on the colour of their skin is to betray those values, turning a celebration of unity into a platform for division.

Finland has a long way to go in addressing racism, but moments like these offer an opportunity for growth. By supporting the girl chosen to play Santa Lucia, by celebrating her courage and the beauty of her representation, we can take a step toward a more inclusive and equitable society. This is not about erasing traditions; it is about expanding them, ensuring they remain relevant and meaningful in a changing world.

Let this year's Santa Lucia serve as a beacon, not just of light in the winter darkness, but of hope for a future where all are truly welcome to take their place in the Finnish story. And let us remember: the true m