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In this exhibition, we present the region, the Peoples, and the languages that they speak. We look at some of the challenges the languages have faced in the past and continue to face into the modern day. Finally, we learn about some revitalization efforts taking place around the circumpolar Arctic, made possible with the help of new laws protecting the languages and their status, state-funded institutions, regional corporations, community-based initiatives, and modern technology.<\/p>\n
This exhibition is produced in collaboration between UiT The Arctic University of Norway University Library and the Arctic Council Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Secretariat. The University of Troms\u00f8 has a national responsibility in Norway for research, education, and knowledge-production regarding S\u00e1mi history, language, and culture. The university offers many courses and programs such as a Master\u2019s program in Indigenous Studies. The Centre for Sami studies (Sesam) is the main research body for S\u00e1mi and Indigenous issues at the university.<\/p>\n
To support these programs the University Library established a special collection of Indigenous literature. The collection contains more than 7000 items, mostly literature about S\u00e1mi history and culture, but also contains material translated into S\u00e1mi. In addition, the collection contains material about other Indigenous Peoples from for example North America, Australia, and New Zealand.<\/p>\n
The Arctic Council Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Secretariat, based at the Fram Centre in Troms\u00f8, Norway, supports the six Indigenous Peoples\u2019 organizations that have Permanent Participant status in the Arctic Council. The Arctic Council is the leading intergovernmental forum promoting cooperation, coordination and interaction among the Arctic States, Arctic Indigenous Peoples and other Arctic inhabitants on common Arctic issues.<\/p>\n
Exhibition project team: Anna Degteva, Astrid S\u00f8mhovd, Erik Lieungh, Erlend Hagan, Helene N. Andreassen, Linnea Nordstr\u00f6m, Mark Stenersen, Michaela Stith, Michelle Saunders, Sunna Kokkonen, and \u00c5se Mette Johansen.<\/p>\n
Thank you to all the organizations and individuals who have provided us with information, photographs, or other assistance with the research, design, and promotion of the exhibition.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n