A Saturday night at Otava’s only bar about 14 kilometers from Mikkeli, took a frightening turn for two men who say they were targeted with racist insults and threats shortly after 10 p.m.
“What was supposed to be an enjoyable evening turned into a dangerous situation,” said one of the persons, who requested anonymity due to trauma and ongoing concerns for his safety.
According to his account, the pair were seated at a table in the bar, enjoying live music, when two visibly intoxicated men approached and attempted to provoke a fight.
“One of the men struck my Asian friend on the head as he walked past, and then began threatening him while repeatedly using the n-word,” he said.
Trying to avoid any problems, the two men moved to another table, but the harassment continued. The men allegedly repeated the racial slur and directed another derogatory comment toward the victims.
Security personnel arrived, and the police were called. The racist harassment continued before the aggressors left the premises and were reportedly waiting outside for both men.
“We decided to leave before the police arrived. We just wanted to get back to Mikkeli,” one of the men said.
The two said the incident had left them uneasy about visiting nightlife venues in small towns.
“I was in shock for about a week,” one of them said. “It’s the first time something like this has happened to me in Finland.”
What should you do if you are a victim of racist harassment?
- First and foremost, make sure you are not in danger.
- Call the police at 112.
- Take your phone and record the aggressor. The recording can be used as evidence.
- If a person attacks you and you can prove it is because of your background, it can constitute a hate crime.
- Depending on the severity, the police may take many months before bringing charges against the aggressor.
- One of the worst matters that normally happens is the silence of passengers or bystanders. Below is one case that can help.
