Minna Canth and equality day celebrated in Finland

The annual Minna Canth and Equality Day is being marked across Finland on Tuesday, honouring the legacy of the 19th-century writer and social reformer, reports national news agency STT.

Born on 19 March 1844, Canth was a pioneering author, journalist, and advocate for women’s rights and the underprivileged. Her work challenged societal norms and highlighted issues of gender inequality and poverty.

The day has been observed as a national flag-flying day in Finland for around two decades.

This year, the city of Kuopio—Canth’s hometown—will award the inaugural Minna Canth Prize. The award recognises contributions to democracy, equality, education, and freedom of speech.