Purdue News
Purdue NewsDecember 12, 1997
Purdue police received several phone calls from people who had seen a procession of about eight people wearing white robes and hoods.
Police subsequently learned that the group was celebrating St. Lucia Day, which is observed on Dec. 13 in Sweden. The ancient tradition includes the wearing of white robes in early morning processions. Men wear pointed caps, and women wear wreathes on their heads with lighted candles. In Sweden, the oldest daughter serves coffee and sweet rolls to the family while dressed in white.
"We are sorry for any misunderstanding," said one member of the group. "We simply wanted to do it for our friends, to share the celebration and serenade them."
After serenading in the Hilltop Apartments area, the group went to some campus departments and offices until about 9 a.m.
"In the morning darkness, it's understandable that these traditional costumes could be mistaken for the ones worn by certain racist groups," said Purdue police Capt. Steven R. Dietrich. "We are glad to know it was a positive event, and hope we have cleared up any confusion."
Source: Capt. Steven R. Dietrich, (765) 494-8221
Writer: Greg Zawisza, (765) 494-2086; e-mail, greg_zawisza@purdue.edu
Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; e-mail, purduenews@purdue.edu
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