The World Health Organization (WHO) removed homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases on 17 May in 1990. In Finland, homosexuality had already been removed from the classification of crimes in 1971 and from the classification of diseases in 1981. We were forerunners.
Section 6 of the Finnish Constitution states that everyone is equal before the law. No one shall, without an acceptable reason, be treated differently from other persons on the ground of sex, age, origin, language, religion, conviction, opinion, health, disability or other reason that concerns his or her person. That’s what this day is about: the Constitution also protects people who belong to a sexual or gender minority. We all deserve to live free from discrimination.
Every one of us should be able to live our everyday lives without fear. We all have a responsibility to build a better society. A tolerant Finland where we respect each other in both words and deeds.
Every person has the right to respect and dignity, regardless of their personal characteristics or how they identify themselves. We hope that together we can build a Finland where it is safe for everyone to live and be who they are. A country where everyone’s contribution is valued. Today, too, we want to stand up for equality, against discrimination and harassment.
With our words and deeds, we can help create a safe environment for everyone. Together, we will make a change. Together, we will build an increasingly strong and equal Finland, Europe and world.
