The Map

The words displayed alongside it were spoken at the 13th Nordic Sámi Congress in 1986: 

“We Sámi are one people — and country borders will not split our people’s fellowship.” 

These words continue to resonate today. 

The exhibition is situated within the Lule Sámi language area, which spans from the Gulf of Bothnia in the east to the Vestfjord in the west. Across these lands live individuals and families who share a language, heritage, and cultural expression — while also being part of the broader Sámi community that crosses national borders.

In Sweden, most Lule Sámi reside in Jokkmokk and Gällivare. In Norway, the majority are located in and around Tysfjord, now part of Hábmer (Hamarøy) municipality. A significant proportion of the local population identifies as Sámi. 

Some are registered on the Sámi electoral roll; many are not. Some are students, others are employed in various sectors, including industry. Many have family members across the national border — and some across continents.

Sámi individuals represent a wide range of experiences and identities: 
Some vote left, others right. 
Some are reindeer herders; others are practitioners of duodje, traditional Sámi handicrafts. 
Some identify as queer; others are hip-hop artists or fans. 
Many are Christian; others identify as humanist.

Sámi identity is not singular. It is complex, evolving, and grounded in both shared experience and personal expression. It carries laughter, connection, and mourning — particularly in moments of loss.

This is Sámi identity: 
 Diverse. Enduring. Real.