One foundation has urged people to stop using the black face as part of a traditional Star Boys show that tells a biblical story about three wise men and their role in Christian birth games.
The foundation said it had taken into account the reaction of the wider society to racism and wanted to show that it took the message seriously.
Traditionally, one of the “three kings” has worn a black face in Oulu that tells a story. The first tradition of this tradition dates back to 1873.
Initially, youth groups traveled around the district or area, telling the story, asking for donations at the end of the show. They were known as’Tiernapoja“or” Star Boys “.
Blackface has become known as a way for white actors to portray black characters in often stereotypical or offensive ways.
Star Boy Foundation (Tiernasäätiö says it would like rituals to be performed outside of its own events, to consider its attitude and to change its ways.
The foundation had recommended that blackface not be used and that the character “King of the Moors” be renamed “King of the Moors” after the popular Finnish man’s name Mauri.
Now the organization has said it will not allow blackface in its own events, and recommends others follow its example.
This means darkening the beards below the nose, but not a completely black face – but only for male actors.
On the last weekend of November, the foundation will organize a Star Boy competition in the center of Oulu, where groups from all over the country will gather to compete.
Source: The Nordic Page