In the Finnish documentary series 'Vihatut naiset' aired on TV1, a significant incident from 1990 was highlighted, in which equality advocate Marianne Laxén was targeted by male leaders in a troubling display of sexism. Laxén, who served as a specialist in the gender equality council during this time, received a lewd card known as the 'penis card' from six prominent men in the labor market, which depicted an indecent image and featured a French slogan that translates to 'Long live men, let men live.' This incident came shortly after Finland enacted its first gender equality law, a development that Laxén was instrumental in facilitating.

The incidents discussed in the documentary reflect a broader ongoing issue of harassment and sexism faced by women in positions of power and influence. While societal progress has been made regarding gender equality, the persistence of such demeaning acts serves as a stark reminder of the cultural attitudes that still need to be addressed. The card, described as 'outrageous', showcases not only individual acts of disrespect but also a systemic problem tied to historical gender dynamics in the workplace.

This conversation continues to be relevant today, as Finland navigates the complexities of gender equality within its workforce and leadership roles. The documentary aims to shed light on such historical instances of harassment, encouraging viewers to reflect on societal changes and the necessary steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Laxén's experience highlights the importance of vigilance and advocacy in the continual fight for true equality and respect for women in all spheres of life.