In Norway’s Fosen Peninsula, a herd of reindeer running through snow is a powerful sight, evoking the sound of thunder. For Maja Kristine Jama, a Sami reindeer herder, this spectacle is a deeply ingrained part of her heritage. Raised alongside the migrating reindeer instead of attending kindergarten, Jama is intimately connected to the land and the animals she cares for.
Reindeer herding is a sustainable practice that has been carried out by the Sami people for thousands of years, reflecting their respect for nature and the ecosystem. However, the Sami are facing threats to their way of life, including borders, land seizures, and discrimination.
In a show of solidarity with another oppressed Indigenous group, the Sami have reached out to the Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, recognizing their shared struggles for self-determination and rights. This connection has led to the Sami community becoming vocal advocates for the Palestinian cause, participating in demonstrations and spreading awareness through social media.
The history of the Sami people is marked by colonization, forced assimilation, and displacement. The imposition of borders and restrictions on their traditional way of life has had lasting effects on their culture and languages. Climate change, land seizures for resource extraction, and the construction of wind farms on Sami land have further threatened their livelihoods.
Despite these challenges, Sami activists, particularly younger generations, are reclaiming their roots and advocating for their rights. Through social media and grassroots activism, they are challenging narratives of shame and oppression, and standing in solidarity with other marginalized communities fighting against colonialism.
The struggle of the Sami people for recognition and justice serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of Indigenous struggles around the world. Through their resilience and determination, the Sami are fighting to protect their land, culture, and future.