Scandinavia has its own dark history of assimilating Indigenous people, and churches played a role - but are apologizing

from The Conversation 4 weeks ago

Archbishop Tapio Luoma of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland issued a formal apology to the Sámi people in May 2025, recognizing the church's historical role in undermining Sámi culture and language. Luoma emphasized the need for the church to respect the rights to self-determination of the Sámi. This marks a continued effort by Nordic state churches to reconcile with the Sámi, who are the only recognized Indigenous population within the EU. The Sámi’s ancient spiritual practices faced condemnation from Christian authorities since the 13th century, leading to cultural conflicts.

"Before God and all of you here assembled, we express our regret and ask forgiveness of the Sámi people."

"The church has not respected the rights to self-determination of the Sámi people."

"Christian clerics condemned Sámi spiritual traditions as 'heathen devilry.'"

Read at The Conversation

#saacutemi #indigenous-rights #evangelical-lutheran-church #apology #cultural-heritage

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Scandinavia has its own dark history of assimilating Indigenous people, and churches played a role - but are apologizingScandinavia has its own dark history of assimilating Indigenous people, and churches played a role - but are apologizing Briefly

Scandinavia has its own dark history of assimilating Indigenous people, and churches played a role - but are apologizing
Scandinavia has its own dark history of assimilating Indigenous people, and churches played a role - but are apologizing
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