Political Awakening
ČSV is a well-known slogan tied to Sámi identity and activism. Today, it’s commonly understood as Čájet Sámi Vuoiŋŋa! (“Show the Sámi Spirit!”)

After World War II, the Sámi faced the threat of being assimilated into the majority cultures. When Sámi was labelled a dying language, it became a source of strength for younger generations. Traditional Sámi clothing—once mocked in many places—and yoik singing—often considered sinful—turned into proud symbols of cultural heritage. The idea that “we are one people” is a shared value among Sámi across the Nordic countries.

Here’s what you’ll find along this path:

1. Evacuation, the destruction of Lapland, and the rebuilding that followed.

2. The flooding of areas in Sompio due to reservoirs.

3. The resettlement of Skolt Sámi in Finland after the war.

4. The shift from travelling schools to a permanent school network.

5. The Raked Forest of the North by Jouni S. Laiti, located in the language tunnel.

6. Language revitalisation, empowering communities to bring endangered languages back to life.

7. Museum-led repatriations, showing a new spirit of cooperation between the Sámi and majority populations.

8. Ládjogahpir – The Sámi foremothers’ Hat of Pride.

9. Efforts to restore the Vainosjoki River.

10. Sámi music and visual art.

11. A thriving community and Sámi-run institutions.