Racism can be fought with small actions - Online training gives tools to prevent the mental health effects of racism faced by children and young people

Anti-Racism Week was celebrated from 17 to 23 March 2025, with the national theme being to highlight the experiences of children and young people and the responsibility of adults to address racism experienced by children and young people.

- Addressing racism should not be left to the municipalities that face racism in their daily lives, where they first have to endure the effects of racist acts or speech on their own well-being and well-being, and then they should address it themselves. It is the responsibility of each of us to support the discriminated against. All discriminatory behaviour is illegal and is clearly prohibited in all city services and premises," says Mikko Ala-Kapee, Equality Coordinator.

Training provides information and tools to support anti-racism work

The event was delivered by Vanessa Grant, a specialist in Muudi activities at the Youth Mental Health Association Yeesi. Muudi focuses on promoting the mental health of young people who have been victims of racism.

The training covered the identification and recognition of racist structures, the mental health challenges posed by racism in young people's lives and practical ways of working against racism.

- Vanessa's excellent training highlighted the significant mental health impact of racism and provided concrete tools on how to deal with young people who have experienced racism. The training is suitable for everyone in Tampere, regardless of whether they work with young people," says Lauri Ikola, project planner of the Youth for Wellbeing by Working Together project.

A recording of the training will be widely distributed

A recording of the training is available for free viewing until 31 December 2025. The training was held in Finnish, but can also be viewed with English subtitles.

The recording is available on the City of Tampere website and the training is distributed to the education staff of the Tampere City Region through the Tampere Region Share.

According to Pihla Ruusukallio of Osakke, the first experiences of racism are already at a playful age, so the topic is important for all age groups. On the other hand, educators, teachers and counsellors can create a sense of belonging and build a positive self-image for children and young people through small actions.

- By raising awareness, these tools can be used throughout the whole path of growth and learning," Pihla continues.

The training was organised in cooperation with the City of Tampere's Wellbeing Development Programme, Community and Development Services, Tampere Region Share and the Youth Wellbeing by Doing Together project on Tuesday 18 March at 18:00-19:30.