Sanna Sarromaa, a 46-year-old Finnish social commentator, has shared her personal struggle with Norway’s national day celebrations on May 17. While the day is often viewed as a yearly highlight filled with tradition, Sarromaa describes it as a “sad reminder” of her lack of roots in the country.
Because she is not Norwegian, Sarromaa finds the national sentiment challenging to relate to. She has stated that she has no personal relationship with the national day and finds nothing moving about the occasion.
The Symbolism of the Bunad
The bunad, a central symbol of the May 17 celebrations, serves as a reminder of Sarromaa’s feeling of exclusion. Since she is not Norwegian, she does not own the traditional attire, which she says makes her feel “stusslig” and “jævla fattig” when compared to others in the streets.
This visual contrast reinforces a sense of stigma and a feeling that she does not belong. For Sarromaa, the national dress emphasizes her status as an outsider during the festivities.
Personal Coping and Family Dynamics
To manage the day, Sarromaa often withdraws from the crowds. During her time living in Lillehammer, she would dress her children and send them out to celebrate while she remained home alone in her pajamas.
While her husband embraces the traditional Norwegian celebrations, Sarromaa prefers the solitude of staying indoors. She has expressed that being able to avoid the festivities is a relief.
Broader Views and Political Stance
Sarromaa is no stranger to sparking reactions with her views, having previously stated that she does not like Easter. She has also called for the abolition of the monarchy, suggesting that the royal family is “in a cage.”
Despite these views, Sarromaa clarifies that her personal struggles with the national day are not directed at the Norwegian people. She has stated that she wishes all Norwegians a happy celebration in their own way, even though she finds the day “fælt” for herself.
Looking ahead, Sarromaa may continue to seek alternative ways to spend the holiday to avoid the feelings of stigma associated with the public celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Sanna Sarromaa avoid celebrating May 17?
She is not Norwegian and views the day as a “sad reminder” of her lack of roots in the country, making the national sentiment difficult to relate to.
How does the bunad affect her experience of the day?
Because she does not have a bunad, she feels “stusslig” and “jævla fattig” when seeing others wear them, which reinforces her feeling that she does not belong.
What is her opinion on the Norwegian monarchy?
She believes We see time to abolish the monarchy and has described the royal family as being “in a cage.”
Do you believe national symbols can sometimes create barriers for those trying to integrate into a new culture?
