Episode 2 | Interview with Anna, part 1

Rájehis Sápmi

Land Acknowledgement: Pacific Sámi Searvi is headquartered in what is now known as Seattle, Washington, which is unceded Duwamish Land. This podcast was recorded in what is now known as Sandpoint, Idaho which is unceded Kalispel and Ktunaxa land and in what is now known as Pemberton, British Columbia, which is unceded Lil'wat and Stl'atl'imc land.

In this episode we introduce the terms "duodji" and "duojár". Historically, duodji are the everyday items of survival that traveled with migratory Sámi and sustained the lives of resident Sámi, including clothing, tools, cooking implements, knives, and other household objects. Important elements of duodji are that they are handmade, functional items used regularly, they are beautiful, and they are a meaningful personal expression with connection to tradition. Duojárs are those who create duodji.

By contrast, the term dáidda (dáiddár is the artist) was coined in the 1970s when the Sámi began to use art as a means of political resistance and expression. The art created during these movements did not have the same combination of daily functionality and beauty as duodji. Other dáidda more closely resemble the Western concept of fine art, as items whose primary function is aesthetic, intellectual, or imaginative.

The Pacific Sámi Searvi was created to bring together people in the diaspora, embracing our culture and culture. Our mission at the Pacific Sámi Searvi is to honor, cultivate, and expand understanding of Sámi culture, heritage, and contemporary issues.

Learn more at https://www.pacificsami.org/ or email us at [e-mail].