Police investigate allegations of discrimination against catering entrepreneur in Haapajärvi, Finland

Police have initiated a preliminary investigation regarding the denial of access to a funeral reception venue in Haapajärvi, Northern Ostrobothnia, for a catering entrepreneur. The caterer, Johan Engström, would have preferred to let the matter go, but discrimination is a crime subject to official charges, as he claims another entrepreneur prevented the use of their rented facilities for the memorial service due to Engström’s sexual orientation.

Engström noted that the police have begun their investigation, despite his reluctance to file a formal complaint. He expressed that discriminatory treatment is not common in Haapajärvi. If the investigation confirms that discrimination occurred, the entrepreneur who denied access could face fines or imprisonment of up to six months, which could be served conditionally.

Engström believes the other entrepreneur has already learned a significant lesson from the incident, stating this individual has faced consequences in various instances and has been shut out of opportunities. The legal system is now assessing the seriousness of the matter and the potential repercussions.

Moreover, the Equality Ombudsman can also take up the case on their own initiative. Should the Ombudsman find enough grounds for discrimination, the entrepreneur who denied access could be liable for compensation amounting to tens of thousands of euros.

Regarding personal feedback, Engström revealed that while he has received some negative messages through social media, the majority of responses have been positive and supportive. He clarified he had never met or even heard of the other entrepreneur until their phone conversation to reserve the venue.