Abstract
The subject of identity is important in today’s political landscape. This article explores the way in which indigenous identity in particular is a contested subject, taking into account the way indigeneity in itself was, and still is, created within colonial contexts. The “validity” of indigenous peoples and their political aims, as well as their right to live according to their own cultural paths, will often be determined according to racist ideas connected to authenticity and its stereotypical demands. Such concepts can furthermore turn inward, disconnecting indigenous peoples from their own heritage. How ideas of authenticity affect indigenous individuals and their processes of identification serves as a central question within this text. Central to the Standing Rock movement was the focus on spirituality and religion grounded in Lakota traditions and other indigenous cultures. The text accounts for how these practices affected Marielle Beaska Gaup, Sámi artist, activist, and mother, especially through her experiences as a juoigi, a traditional Sámi yoiker. The ever-present singing and drumming at camp, chiefly during the summer, tied the mundane and ritualistic together, a characteristic mirroring traditional Lakota and Sámi ways of life, in which the spiritual at times seem to be an integral part of daily life. Building upon Marielle’s observations, the text looks at the way indigenous people’s relationships with spiritual traditions can affect processes of identification, and how indigenous identity can be intimately link to its spiritual heritage. This article employs indigenous methodologies, centering research on Sámi and indigenous perspectives, values and agendas. Marielle’s reflections contribute to the exploration of the connections between spirituality and Sámi identities; furthermore, they enable us to connect ideas about moving beyond the authoritarian ideals of “authentic identities”, through re-centering on indigenous experiences and processes of identification My main source is Marielle’s interview and articles based on interviews with people from Standing Rock The analysis centers on Marielle’s thoughts together with my own, with support from indigenous researchers bringing their own knowledge about identity and spirituality forward.
Highlights
Marielle Gaup Beaska came to Standing Rock to stand with the Lakota Nation of Turtle Island
I raise questions about identity and spirituality, and try to answer them with the help of Marielle and others, in ways that might be illuminating and interesting for some, and, I hope, helpful or thought provoking for Sámi and other indigenous people that find themselves wondering the same questions, or who might not have thought about these subjects at all
Relying on Kuokkonen’s own definition, the characteristics of an indigenous paradigm are as follows: (1) a social and political agenda aiming at a thorough indigenizing of indigenous societies, (2) a critical view towards Western metaphysical dualism, still shaping most of today’s research practices and ways of looking at the world, (3) a holistic approach striving towards a balance between all aspects of life, not separating intellectual, social, political, economic and spiritual forms of human life, and (4) situatedness, an explicit connection to the researcher’s own culture, meaning that forms of expression and cultural practice are reflected in the researching process
Summary
Marielle Gaup Beaska came to Standing Rock to stand with the Lakota Nation of Turtle Island. The camp was set up to protect the local drinking water from a pipeline and with time came to symbolize Native American Resistance, environmentalism and the fight against eco-racism worldwide It became well known internationally for its many participants, the indigenous people and allies who came from all around the world, and its focus on peaceful ways of protesting. Yoik has been an important way of communicating and connection for Sámi people in the context of Norwegianisation. In what way is yoik, an important pillar of Sámi culture, instrumental in this ongoing process for Marielle and other yoikers? Is an account from Cannupa Hanska Lugar, an artist, born on the Standing Rock reservation His reflections put into words some of my thoughts and show how important this movement was for many Native Americans. With support from indigenous methodology, I delve into some of the ways that identity can be seen as connected to land, tradition, spirits and people
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
