Music, mining and colonisation: Sámi contestations of Sweden’s self-narrative

Sámi musician Sofia Jannok’s decolonial music challenges Sweden’s marginalization of its colonial history in Sápmi, exposing tensions between reindeer herding communities, mining interests, and the state. The study reveals how her narrative and musical expression intersect with political discourse, offering a counterpoint to Sweden’s self-narrative that downplays Sámi subordination. By analyzing Jannok’s work through dual lenses—personal narrative and discursive markers—the research demonstrates music as a powerful tool for contesting colonial legacies and reshaping national identity.

Rosamond, A. B. (2020). Music, mining and colonisation: Sámi contestations of Sweden’s self-narrative. Politik, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.7146/politik.v23i1.120310