Published 14.6.2023

Safety is everyones right!

Lapland University of Applied Sciences Student Union ROTKO would like to express deep concern and condemnation regarding the recent violent attacks targeting individuals at the beginning of Pride Month. Every individual has the right to be exactly who they are, without fear or threat. The strength of our society lies in diversity, and we must support each other, especially when someone becomes a victim of violence or discrimination.

Pride Month is an important time to emphasize the rights of sexual and gender minorities and celebrate diversity. It is also a reminder that we must constantly strive to create an equal and tolerant environment for everyone.

We would also like to remind our students about the Student Union's harassment contact persons. The Student Union is committed to providing a safe and confidential channel for you to reach out to if you experience harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior. The harassment contact persons are ready to assist and support you, listen to your concerns, and guide you if necessary.

Even during the summer, you may encounter different situations and environments, but please remember that the Student Union is here for you. The harassment contact persons are still available in cases of harassment. Be brave and reach out to them if you need help or support.

Together, we can build a safe and respectful learning environment where everyone can thrive and feel welcome just as they are. The Student Union stands shoulder to shoulder with you, and we will continue our work to promote equality, acceptance, and safety.

Harassment contact persons available during the summer:
Leevi Viljanen (leevi.viljanen[at]lapinrotko.fi)
Hanna Hautajärvi (hanna.hautajarvi[at]lapinrotko.fi)
Elina Holm (toiminnanjohtaja[at]lapinrotko.fi)

In non-urgent cases, you can also contact the staff harassment contact persons:
Pieta Pyhtinen (pieta.pyhtinen[at]lapinrotko.fi)
Martti Muraja (martti.muraja[at]lapinrotko.fi)

Published 25.2.2022

Lapland UAS Student Union ROTKO condems the military attack done by the Russian federation. Russia's hostilities are contrary to international law.

"Our thoughts are now with all the students living in Finland who are affected by the situation and who are close to them in the war zone."

Ulla-Maija Karjalainen, Lapland ROTKO, Chairperson of the Representatives.

The European Union must act as one in support of Ukraine and its people. More sanctions must be imposed on Russia and Russia must be demanded to end its hostilities in Ukraine immediately.

In particular, Finland must increase the humanitarian and financial means of support by which we can help Ukraine in this difficult situation. Each of us can help by donating to those who take humanitarian aid to Ukraine’s conflict zones. In addition, disseminating information about the war from reliable sources on your own networks can help.

We would also like to remind that the situation is not the cause of Russian citizens or Russian-speakers living in Finland. We must not give space to discrimination.

A crisis can upset the mind and cause distressing feelings. However, you do not have to be left alone with your thoughts. Chat help is available in the following places, for example:

𝗠𝗜𝗘𝗟𝗜 ry (Mental Health Finland) The emergency telephone is available 24 hours a day, every day at 09 2525 0111. You can call anonymously and confidentially. https://mieli.fi/en/

Nyyti 𝗿𝘆 offers group chats and one-to-one peer-chats on a weekly basis. In a one-to-one chat, you can talk to a volunteer peer advisor about any topic related to mental well-being or student life. MielenTEKoja chat is on duty on Mondays and Thursdays from 5 pm to 7 pm. https://www.nyyti.fi/en/

𝗦𝗲𝗸𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻-𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁 serves 9-24 on weekdays and 15-24 on weekends. The chat is aimed at young people aged 12-29. https://sekasin247.fi/

Emergency telephone for foreigners 09 4135 0501 Finnish Mental Health Society on weekdays from 9 am to 3 pm.

Do not be afraid to contact the above. You can also contact the Lapland UAS’s support services.

On behalf of Student Union ROTKO,

Rovaniemi 25.2.2022

Ulla-Maija Karjalainen
Chairperson of the Representatives

Julia Nikusaari
Chairperson of the board

Elina Holm 
Executive Director