Guest lecture by Professor John Kilbourne, Grand Valley State University, Michigan
With climate change expanding trade routes in the Arctic and the resultant pursuit of oil, gas, mineral deposits, and fish, it is imperative that the eight Arctic countries find paths towards sustainability and peace in the region. Revisiting and understanding the early play and games of the indigenous people of these regions can go a long way towards helping those determining the region’s future to work cooperatively towards these goals.
Throughout history, the games the Sámi have played have been a testament about who they were, and are. From early Sámi lassoing games, to the gladiator contests of Ancient Rome, to the modern American game of baseball, the games the Sámi play have served as a statement of and a rehearsal for the life-world of that period and place. By reconnecting with and understanding the games of the Sámi's past, we can build meaningful bridges between the past and present, and hopefully gain a better understanding of the modern world. The aforesaid are timely and important, especially as they relate to indigenous people throughout the world who are trying to preserve their traditions in a fast changing modern world.
This presentation will offer, based on John Kilbourne's research and experiences in the Arctic, lessons learned from early Sámi play and games that may help promote sustainability and peace in the Arctic world. Hopefully, by acknowledging these lessons we can pursue a path forward, together reconnecting with the early play and games of the Arctic with the hope of building meaningful bridges between the past and present and moreover, helping to enhance our understanding of the important role early games can play in shaping an Arctic where sustainability and peace flourish.