Photography exhibition challenges stereotypes by showcasing Romani people in everyday work

A new photography exhibition in Kajaani, Finland, presents the daily working lives of Romani people to challenge long-held stereotypes, reports Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

The exhibition, titled Tavallista arkea (Ordinary Everyday Life), opened on International Romani Day and features portraits of Romani individuals in their workplaces across Finland. The project was initiated by Romani rights expert Ramona Grönstrand, who has worked for years to promote equality and employment opportunities for Romani communities in the Kainuu region.

“My goal is to show people the real, everyday life of Romani people today,” Grönstrand told Yle. “It’s been an honour to be part of this from the very beginning.”

Photographer Anni Pohjaranta, who documented the subjects in spring 2026, said she was struck by the persistence of stereotypes. Many participants shared experiences of being judged differently when wearing traditional Romani clothing, forcing them to work twice as hard to be seen as trustworthy.

Grönstrand echoed this sentiment, noting that while she is recognised as an individual in her hometown of Kajaani, she faces different treatment elsewhere. “When I travel to unfamiliar places, I’m often seen first as a Romani, not as Ramona.”

The exhibition highlights diverse professions, from bus drivers to horse trainers, reflecting what Grönstrand describes as a daily life “almost identical” to that of other Finns. Work, she emphasised, is a key source of well-being for many in the community.

Pohjaranta praised the dedication of those she photographed: “I met so many wonderful people. The pride and passion they bring to their work is truly admirable.”

The exhibition is part of Oulu 2026, Finland’s European Capital of Culture programme, and serves as a prelude to Romforum, a theatre production exploring diversity in the workplace. It is on display at Kajaani City Theatre’s small stage, Sissilinna.