Tolerance has become a hot topic in Oulu due to the recent acts of violence directed at foreigners. Last week’s march of hundreds of people downtown was one expression of the plea for peaceful coexistence. The marchers included foreigners as well as Finns.
The march ended at the city hall, where imam and chairman of the Islamic Society of Northern Finland Abdul Mannan gave a speech emphasizing equality. “We may all have different skin colors, but we share a common mindset—love of peace, tolerance and justice.”
Mayor Matti Pennanen attended the event as well and reminded those present that a sense of community and tolerance are important values for the city of Oulu. “Our form of democracy is especially liberal, but when it is employed in the wrong way, no one will stand for it.”