Sami Youth
The story of the Sami people is crucial to share because it highlights Europe’s only officially recognized indigenous group and their deep cultural heritage. The Sami, living in the Arctic regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia, embody a unique relationship with nature, particularly through reindeer herding. This tradition reflects sustainable living practices, which are increasingly relevant in discussions about environmental conservation. Telling their story bridges the past with the present, fostering an appreciation for their culture while also bringing attention to the ongoing challenges they face in preserving their identity and rights. Efforts to address historical injustices, including the recognition of their languages and land rights, show progress, but issues remain, particularly concerning land encroachments due to industrial activities.
In Sweden, the Sami predominantly reside in the northernmost areas, such as Norrbotten and Västerbotten. Although many have transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to permanent housing, reindeer herding remains a key aspect of their culture. They speak distinct Sami languages, with North Sami being the most common in Sweden. These languages were only officially recognized in Sweden in 2000, with ongoing efforts to preserve them through the Sami Parliament.
The Sami’s connection to nature is central to their identity, the Arctic landscape is not a resource to deplete, but is part of their cultural fabric. This connection is threatened by modern industrial activities, such as mining, which disrupt their traditional lands and practices. This project hope to highlight their ethos of creating long-lasting products aligns with the Sami philosophy of resource conservation.