In a groundbreaking moment for representation, 20-year-old Daniela Owusu became the first Black woman to portray Saint Lucia in Finland’s annual festival of light. The Finnish-Ghanaian student was chosen by public vote to lead the celebrations at Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral on December 13th, donning the traditional white gown, red sash, and crown of candles. However, what should have been a joyous occasion quickly turned sour as Owusu faced a deluge of racist abuse and hate messages following her appearance.
The vicious backlash prompted swift condemnation from the highest levels of Finland’s government. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo personally met with Owusu and the Lucia choir during their visit to Parliament, offering his apologies for the racist comments she endured. “I want to build a safe and equal Finland,” Orpo declared, emphasizing his commitment to stamping out discrimination.
A Celebration Marred by Hate
The Lucia festival, a beloved Swedish tradition celebrating the martyr Saint Lucia, has been observed for generations in Finland, which was part of Sweden until 1809. Around 5% of Finns claim Swedish as their mother tongue. Each year, a young girl or woman is selected to embody Lucia, leading a procession in the iconic white robes and glowing candle crown.
For Owusu, being chosen as Finland’s first Black Lucia was a chance to inspire others and showcase the country’s growing diversity. “It would be important to have a Lucia who represents multiculturalism and to show that Lucia can look many ways,” she said upon winning the public vote. Little did she know the ugliness her barrier-breaking role would unleash.
Folkhälsan, the organization behind Helsinki’s Lucia celebrations, revealed that Owusu was targeted with thousands of racist and hate-filled messages following her December 13th appearance. The “deeply distressing” attacks, now reported to police and the government’s discrimination ombudsman, cast a pall over what should have been a unifying and joyful event.
A Nation Grapples with Racism
Owusu’s plight comes amidst a broader reckoning over racism and far-right extremism in Finnish society. Just a week prior, the country’s Independence Day celebrations were marred by a nationalist march through Helsinki attended by a prominent MP from the right-wing Finns Party, which is part of the current governing coalition. The incident sparked outrage and renewed calls to address festering discrimination.
For many, the attacks on Owusu were a wake-up call, exposing the urgent need for Finland to confront racism head-on. Leading newspaper Helsingin Sanomat decried the “dark racism” that would “find a reason for aggression and hatred in a celebration of light, hope and kindness.” Activists stressed that these were not isolated incidents, but signs of deeply rooted prejudice bubbling to the surface.
A Light in the Darkness
Yet amidst the ugliness, there were also glimmers of hope. Owusu received an outpouring of support from across Finland, with thousands rallying to her defense. Folkhälsan thanked the “majority” who “showed their support for Finland’s Lucia 2024 and took a stand against racism.” The organization pledged to continue fighting racism and building a more inclusive Finland.
Prime Minister Orpo’s unprecedented apology and show of solidarity also sent a powerful message. By meeting directly with Owusu and the Lucia choir, he aimed to reassure Finns of African descent that they are seen, valued, and defended at the highest levels. The government now faces pressure to back up Orpo’s words with concrete action to combat racism and promote equality.
“We have worked actively for diversity and inclusion, against racism,” said Folkhälsan’s CEO Anna Hellerstedt. “These events clearly show that more work is still needed.”
For Owusu, who so bravely stepped into the spotlight to shatter barriers, the road ahead is lined with both challenges and opportunities. As the first Black Lucia, she carries the hopes of Finns of color seeking greater representation and acceptance. Her courage in the face of cruelty has made her an inspiration and role model for generations to come.
Finland now stands at a crossroads, forced to grapple with the racism that has lurked beneath the surface of its society for too long. The shameful treatment of Daniela Owusu was a stain on the country’s reputation, but also a chance to chart a new course. With leaders like Prime Minister Orpo standing up to be counted, and brave young women like Owusu leading the way, Finland has an opportunity to build a more just, equitable, and inclusive future for all its people. The light of Saint Lucia’s crown may flicker, but the hope and resilience it represents will never be extinguished.
