Ingen behöver vara rädd (No one needs to be afraid)

Artist: Mario Rojas
Year created: 2009
Material: Aluminium

The sculpture Ingen behöver vara rädd stands as a reminder of a dark event in Jönköping’s history. In the summer of 1948, one of Sweden’s worst racist riots of modern times took place right in the heart of the city. A large crowd gathered on Östra Torget to witness humiliation and violence inflicted on Swedish travellers, who at the time were derogatorily referred to as ‘gypsies’.

The work consists of three figures – two adults and a child – standing together on a cross. The cross is a symbol often used by Swedish travellers and in this context carries a clear message: no one needs to be afraid here.

The sculpture gives voice to a people who have long lived on the margins of society and have historically experienced vulnerability. It aims to provide security, remind us of what has happened in our past and look ahead to a more inclusive society.

About the artist

Mario Rojas (b. 1964) is a sculptor and ceramicist with roots in Colombia. He studied ceramics at the University of Bogotá and is active in Sweden. Rojas often works with themes related to identity, history and human rights.