Spectrum hosts Sami: The Real People of the North exhibit this week

The Spectrum Network gallery has on display now through December 30 an exhibit titled Sami: The Real People of the North. This display is to remind us of the Sami, the real people of the north.  Families are invited to come see pictures of these people and how they live in their lavoo, teepee-like homes.  There are reindeer antlers, skins and bells as well as a display of Sami common foods and artifacts. At this time of year our homes, stores, TV shows and public spaces are full of the symbols of the holidays.  Many people speak cheerily of the North Pole and we see representations of it as a common aspect of the season.  But few realize that in the farthest regions of Northern Europe there are people called the Sami.  Over time many of our Santa details and stories have been based on impressions of these people. These reindeer herding, pointy boot wearing neighbors to the north are the actual people that are the inspiration for flying sleds with bells and snowy villages with brightly dressed inhabitants.
    
Luther College professor Kate Martinson curated the exhibit, which is on display at 607 Washington Street, Decorah. The building is wheelchair accessible. For more information, call 563-382-8401 or visit www.thespectrumnetwork.org.

The Spectrum Network is a private, non-profit organization that provides customized employment services and daily living assistance to adults with disabilities, substance abuse, mental illness, and other barriers. Approximately 115 men and women from ten Iowa counties benefit from the services of The Spectrum Network.