Martas movement flourishes with diverse activities in Finland and beyond

The group “Forced Martas” received its name from a joke. Heidi Peltonen from Kokkola remarked to a colleague that if one works with Martas, they must belong to them. Now, a few friends have also been “forced” into the group. Once a month, they engage in relaxed activities. “Last time, we learned to crochet, even though we are not craft enthusiasts. In spring, we planted flowers, held cooking classes, and enjoyed coffee together. We also celebrate a joint birthday each year,” Peltonen shares.

The Martas movement is thriving, with approximately 38,500 members across over a thousand associations or groups in Finland. The youngest members are babies, while the oldest are over 100 years old. At its peak in the 1960s, the number of Martas reached nearly 100,000. Today’s activities include modern alternatives to traditional homemaking and crafts, such as flexibar workouts, jewelry workshops, wine tasting, craft cafes, puzzle exchanges, air fryer courses, and Martas rallies.

Founded in 2007, the Anarchist Martas embrace the idea of “everyday anarchy,” seeking to do things differently from tradition. Charity and environmentalism are also important to them. Although they operate primarily in the Helsinki area, members reside throughout Finland, with one even in Baltimore. “We do not engage in extremist movements, nor do we occupy barricades,” states Tarja Suksi, the group’s chairperson, noting their participation in Pride, environmental marches, and knitting socks for Ukraine.

The Martas are not exclusively a women’s group. The “Gourmet Gentleman Martas” in Pori gather monthly to cook, experimenting with seasonal ingredients. Their initiative is designed to inspire more people to join and embrace traditional Martas values, which focus on sustainability, DIY projects, and recycling.