City of Oulu promotes communality and equality also during Pride Week August 4–10

Oulu Pride Week is celebrated on August 4–10. This year, the theme of Oulu Pride Week is communality. 

Principles for a safer and bolder space were compiled for the city of Oulu in early 2025. According to these principles, every person has the right to be seen, heard and accepted as who they are. Harassment contact person trainings have been organized for city personnel in different fields. Additionally, the City Board approved the Anti-Racism Operational Programme in February, and the anti-racism project Oulu for All launched in March. In order to promote communality and equality, it is important that living and gathering in Oulu is safe for minorities. We create safer and bolder spaces together in Oulu. 

In the city of Oulu’s libraries, you can participate in Oulu Pride Week’s Rainbow Storytimes and read themed books. The Mobile Library Kauno participates in the Park Celebration on August 9. You can borrow books and other materials, as well as participate in reading challenges in Kauno. 

A lecture about the roots and rootlessness of non-binary gender minorities will be held in the Oulu Art Museum on August 8. Oulu Youth Services will organize many activities during the Oulu Pride Week: such as workshops, pre-parties, and a spot in the Pride March and the Park Celebration. 

The city of Oulu participates in the Oulu Pride Week based on the council motion approved by the City Board. According to the Non-Discrimination Representative, the goal of hoisting the rainbow flag is supporting equality and human rights. Hoisting the flag is one way to promote equality. 

These are concrete examples of ways the city implements its Equality and Non-Discrimination Plan for the years 2022–2026.  

Oulu is the European Capital of Culture next year, and positive Cultural Climate Change is being built in the city already. Culture and encounters can change the world. At the core of change is the affirmation of equality, diversity, and participation. Everyone has the right to be seen, heard, and shine as who they are. Thus, Oulu2026 proudly supports Oulu Pride and everyone who creates a more open and righteous future. 

See the full Oulu Pride programme in its entirety in the address: www.oulupride.fi