Juoiggus uksan sámi njálmmálas girjjálasvuhtii - bálggis gillii, identitehtii ja iesárvui. The Yoik Opens the Secret Doors to Sámi Oral Literature: A Path into Language, Identity and Self-Esteem

Since the founding of the Sámi University College, our students have been able to study the Sámi language and Sámi literature as separate subjects. One of the main themes of the literature education has been the study of the Sámi oral tradition of yoiking ¿ or chanting ¿ because yoiking is the core of Sámi culture, as well as an important skill which requires a great deal of knowledge. Through oral literature, we can tell where we come from and share our personal histories and identities as well as the histories of our communities ¿ and attain collective integrity. The oral tradition reflects that which is important for us, and, through language, we express our own world view and values. This world view has grown from our surroundings and from the connection we have with nature and all living creatures. Thus, this paper focuses on how we can use oral indigenous literature in learning our language, strengthening our self-esteem and building up a positive identity.