Sami Americans facts for kids

Sami Americans are people in the United States who have Sami family roots. The Sami are an Indigenous group from a region called Sápmi. This area covers parts of northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Kola Peninsula in Russia.

Sometimes, the term Lapp Americans was used. However, the word Lapp is considered offensive by the Sami people. It is much better to use Sami. Experts believe that about 30,000 people in the United States have Sami ancestors.

Who Are the Sami People?

The Sami people are one of the oldest groups living in northern Europe. They have a rich history and unique culture. For thousands of years, they have lived in the Arctic regions. Their way of life was often connected to nature and reindeer herding.

Sami Culture and Traditions

Sami culture is very special. It includes traditional clothing called gákti. This clothing is colorful and has different designs for each family or region. Music is also important. The Sami have a traditional singing style called joik. It is a powerful way to tell stories and express feelings.

Their traditional beliefs often involved nature spirits. Many Sami people today are Christian, but some still follow older traditions. They have their own languages, called Sami languages. These languages are different from Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, or Russian.

Reindeer Herding

For a long time, reindeer herding was a main part of Sami life. Reindeer provided food, clothing, and tools. Sami people followed the reindeer herds as they moved between summer and winter grazing lands. This way of life taught them to live closely with nature.

Why Sami People Came to America

Sami people started coming to America for different reasons. Many came looking for new opportunities. Some were seeking a better life away from difficulties in their home countries.

Early Sami Arrivals

One of the first big groups of Sami people came to Alaska in the late 1800s. The United States government wanted to help Native Alaskans. They thought reindeer herding could be a good way for them to live. So, they invited Sami reindeer herders to Alaska. These Sami families brought their knowledge and skills. They taught others how to care for reindeer.

Sami in the Midwest

Other Sami people moved to the Midwest. They often found work in mining or logging. Many settled in states like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. They worked hard and built new lives. They also tried to keep their Sami traditions alive.

Sami Americans Today

Today, Sami Americans live all over the United States. They are proud of their heritage. Many work to share their culture with others. They form groups and organizations to connect with each other. These groups help keep Sami traditions, languages, and history alive.

Celebrating Sami Heritage

Sami Americans celebrate their culture in many ways. They might hold festivals or gatherings. At these events, they share Sami food, music, and stories. Some learn Sami languages. Others wear traditional gákti clothing. These celebrations help new generations learn about their roots.

Connecting with Sápmi

Many Sami Americans also connect with their relatives and friends in Sápmi. They use the internet and travel to stay in touch. This helps them feel part of the larger Sami community around the world. It also helps them learn more about their history and traditions.

Images for kids

• 

  Sámi milking reindeer, Port Clarence, Alaska, 1900