As a result of vast linguistic and cultural assimilation, the majority of the Sámi have grown up without their Indigenous language. At present, efforts to reclaim the language are increasing. In relinguifying social networks and homes, language education for adults plays a key role. New speakers of Sámi languages are emerging in most Sámi communities, and their role will likely increase in the future.
Annika Pasanen works as Professor of Sámi Sociolinguistics at the Sámi University of Applied Sciences and has actively participated in community-based revitalization of Sámi languages. This seminar talk is based on her postdoctoral research (2017–2021) on new speakers of Inari, North, and Skolt Sámi in Finland.
The talk focuses on the social aspects of language reclamation. To what extent, and through which strategies, do new speakers of Sámi languages start using Sámi with their friends, relatives, and their own children? How do they overcome the barrier to speaking? The importance of a holistic, community-based approach to language reclamation is emphasized through a case study of Inari Sámi Master–Apprentice interaction in the first intensive adult education program in Inari Sámi (2009–2010).
More broadly, crucial questions relate to the future of Sámi languages as a whole: what does it take to become an active Sámi speaker, and how can Sámi communities and majority societies support new speakers of Sámi languages?
