What’s it like to live in a tent and follow a herd of reindeer across the frozen North?
The Scandinavian Cultural Society is planning a huge Sami Culture and Design event for Feb. 3 and 4, exploring the culture and lives of the indigenous people of northern Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. The event will honour Sami National Day, which happens on Feb. 6.
“Sami are a people famous for their long and successful adaptation to life in a harsh environment,” a press release says. “They are also known for the power and beauty of their decorative arts.”
The event will explore that culture with presentations and exhibits, including a furnished Sami lavvu (tent), music, films, crafts and creative arts, and historical and contemporary photos.
An opening reception is set for 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3, while a banquet – featuring reindeer meat, baked salmon and other Sami recipes - is set for that evening with social hour at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m.
The weekend also includes discussions and talks by a variety of experts.
Troy Storfjell, the head of Nordic Studies at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington, who is of Sami heritage, will talk about Sami history. Zita McRobbie from UBC and SFU, who lived among Sami people in Finland, will talk about her experiences researching the Finnish and Sami languages. Lawyer Marja Bulmer, who took a case to Finland’s supreme court on behalf of Sami rights – and won – will discuss current issues in Sapmi, the Sami nation lands.
Anna Lengstrand of Pemberton, who is a Sami descendent, will sell her silver and leather Sami jewelry and talk about Sami decorative arts and the meanings behind their designs.
A group of members from the Scandinavian Community Centre is also working to start a Sami interest group for social, cultural and educational purposes, welcoming anyone with an interest in Sami history, arts or current issues.
“Canadians, especially those in our Far North, have faced prejudice, environmental issues, and the loss of their traditional lands and way of life. It has been similar for the Sami,” the release notes. “Both peoples continue to search for the best place for themselves in modern culture while keeping the traditions of their heritage. We will talk about this, too, and see how we can work together.”
Anyone interested in more information about the event or the group can call Carolyn at 778-228-2334 or email [email protected].
Banquet tickets are available by calling Laura at 604-630-3540.
For updated information and schedule details, see www.scandinaviancentre.org.
