Funeral service canceled in Haapajärvi after venue owner denies access to LGBTQ+ community

A funeral in Haapajärvi, North Ostrobothnia, took an unexpected turn last Saturday when the memorial service was canceled by the venue’s owner, who refused to allow members of the LGBTQ+ community access to the space. Approximately 40 attendees arrived at Siiponkoski School, only to find the venue dark and closed. When family members contacted the owner, Eira Maijala, she explained her decision with the statement, “gays are not allowed here,” specifically referencing the catering service that had been hired for the event.

Maijala confirmed to Yle that she did not want her venue associated with the “Rainbow crowd,” stating she had previously informed the catering company that their representatives would not be permitted. According to her, the caterer should have made this clear to the family. Maijala expressed concerns that allowing the catering service would harm her business reputation.

The incident prompted discussions about sin and morality among attendees, with Pastor Kari Tiirola noting that Maijala criticized him and the guests. While Maijala claimed she voiced religious concerns to Tiirola, he expressed disappointment over the situation, emphasizing that he felt for the grieving family.

After the venue cancellation, family members were left shocked and ultimately secured a new location at a nearby ski resort, where they were able to order pizza from a gas station for the gathering. Inka Rautaoja, a family member, expressed hurt over the prejudiced rationale behind the cancellation, emphasizing that they would not have supported a discriminatory business. The caterer, Johan Engström, admitted to being taken aback by the situation and recognized he made a mistake by not informing the family sooner. The venue owner, Juhani Hietala, clarified that the community association does not discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals, attributing the decision solely to Maijala’s personal stance.