In-depth Notes on Sami Language Revitalization in Sweden

Patricia Fjellgren, a highly regarded linguist and advocate for Indigenous rights, is fluent in both South and North Sami languages. With a master's degree in Sami Language, she has devoted her career to the revitalization of Sami languages, aiming to preserve and promote their cultural significance. In recognition of her invaluable contributions, Fjellgren received the prestigious Language Council of Sweden's Minority Language Award in 2017. Her work extends to film, where she has played a significant role in producing content that educates and enlightens audiences about Sami culture. Furthermore, she is actively engaged in developing Sami animated stories for children, ensuring that the language and cultural narratives are passed on to younger generations in an engaging manner. Similarly, Leena Huss, belonging to the Sweden Finnish national minority, is a distinguished professor emerita in Finnish and minority language research. Her academic pursuits critically analyze policies surrounding language maintenance and revitalization among the Sami people, with a particular focus on the socio-political dynamics that influence these processes. Both authors are not just scholars but passionate advocates for the Sami community, contributing to an enhanced understanding and appreciation of Sami language and identity in Sweden.

Abstract and Purpose

The paper aims to delve into the profound issues of silence and sadness that Indigenous communities grapple with, particularly highlighting the linkage between these feelings and the language and cultural loss that often result in inter-generational trauma. The significance of these themes has gained greater acknowledgment following Sweden's ratification of two pivotal Council of Europe conventions in 2000, which emphasized the critical importance of maintaining Indigenous and minority languages. The authors present the diverse methods and approaches employed by the newly established Sami Language Center since its founding in 2010, calling attention to community responses requisite for tackling large-scale language loss and the emotional barriers that arise from a painful history of stigmatization and forced assimilation. Central to the discussion is the holistic nature of language revitalization, which underscores the emotional dimensions involved. Additionally, the authors advocate for the inclusion of male voices in revitalization efforts, countering the prevailing notion that such efforts are primarily women’s concerns.

Historical Context

The Sami languages, which are integral to the cultural heritage of the Sami people, have been spoken for centuries across Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. However, these languages have endured a long and tumultuous history marked by oppression and stringent assimilation policies imposed by dominant societies. In Sweden, particularly during the early 1900s, the country was overshadowed by Social Darwinist ideologies that profoundly devalued the Sami people, leading to systematic efforts at erasure of their language and culture. Forced assimilation policies persisted well into the 1970s, culminating in substantial cultural and linguistic loss, creating a legacy of trauma that directly impacts the current revitalization initiatives. Understanding this historical backdrop is crucial for grasping the emotional context that now informs contemporary revitalization efforts. The authors openly acknowledge their vested interests in cultural and linguistic revival, drawing on personal experiences and collaborative work to enrich their analysis.

Emotions in Language Revitalization

In their exploration, the authors emphasize the necessity of recognizing and addressing the emotional dimensions involved in Indigenous language revitalization. Revitalization is often inextricably linked to a process of healing from historical traumas inflicted upon Indigenous communities, which makes acknowledging these emotions paramount. They reference the pioneering work of Aneta Pavlenko, indicating how emotions significantly shape multilingual experiences. Importantly, revitalization efforts are framed within a broader decolonization narrative; reclaiming a historically stigmatized language is viewed as a vital step towards empowerment and identity reclamation. The paper offers insights into the emotional journey of Sandra Warrior, describing her struggles and achievements in reclaiming her Indigenous languages, thus highlighting the complex personal narratives that accompany such revival efforts.

Policy Developments and Implementation

In 2000, Sweden took a progressive step by implementing a national minority policy that officially recognized the Sami languages and cultures as integral components of its cultural heritage. This acknowledgment catalyzed the establishment of the Sami Language Center in 2010, a response to ongoing criticism regarding the inadequate support allocated to endangered languages. The center's mission is to foster robust language use and maintain the rich diversity of Sami dialects amidst the ongoing threats posed by language loss. The authors document innovative methodologies developed at the center, including the Bïhkedäjja (Master-Apprentice Program) that facilitates connections between native speakers and learners, and the Language Block Method, specifically designed to help individuals overcome linguistic barriers stemming from negative past experiences associated with language use.

Language Revitalization Methods

Bïhkedäjja

The Bïhkedäjja program is a transformative initiative that involves pairing enthusiastic learners with elder mentors who are fluent native speakers of Sami. This mentorship model promotes language transmission through practical, immersive experiences, eschewing traditional classroom methods in favor of real-world language use. Through these mentor-mentee relationships, the program has demonstrated success in fostering the emergence of new speakers among younger generations, offering them opportunities to embrace and celebrate their cultural identity through the medium of language.

Language Block Method

Designed to tackle psychological barriers that inhibit language use, the Language Block method integrates principles derived from cognitive behavioral therapy. This innovative approach recognizes that negative past experiences can significantly hinder the willingness to use a language, thereby seeks to create nurturing environments. Participants in this program have reported newfound confidence and motivation to engage with Sami, marking a significant transformation in attitudes towards their language and identity.

Language Circus

Gïelečirkuš/Language Circus represents a creative and playful approach to language revitalization, cleverly merging language learning with various circus activities. This method is particularly effective in engaging children with Sami languages, allowing them to interact with the language joyfully through movement and play. The Language Circus establishes inclusive environments where learners can explore language without the fear of making mistakes, thus symbolizing a transformative process of language revitalization characterized by community involvement and emotional healing.

Conclusion

The revitalization of Sami languages occupies a vital space within the larger framework of human rights and identity reclamation. The acknowledgment by the Swedish government of the significance of Sami languages has spurred innovative practices that foster active community engagement. The authors conclude that successful revitalization efforts must be firmly anchored within local contexts. They underscore the importance of creating safe spaces that facilitate healing and address the historical trauma related to language loss. Furthermore, inclusive approaches that recognize the intricate and diverse identities within the Sami community are deemed essential, advocating for environments where all expressions of Sami identity, regardless of proficiency or usage, are respected and affirmed.