Kautokeino’s community confronts discrimination following Kátjá Rávdná’s revelations

A recent focus on Kautokeino has emerged following the publication of Kátjá Rávdná’s story about objectification and abuse in the community. Local politician Ole-Ánte Turi reflects on his responsibility regarding the acceptance of inappropriate behavior, stating, “If you remain silent while witnessing discrimination, you are complicit in accepting it.” This introspection comes as many in Kautokeino are awakening to longstanding issues related to discrimination and harassment.

The local deputy mayor, Elle Mari Dunfjell Oskal, echoes Turi’s sentiments, expressing her discomfort at having dismissed unpleasant comments rather than confronting them. Reading Rávdná’s experiences was challenging for her but deemed vital for addressing the abuse problem in the region.

In a recent op-ed, local politicians thanked Rávdná for her honesty and discussed necessary actions to make Kautokeino a safer place. Turi emphasized the importance of defining clear boundaries regarding acceptable behavior and fostering a community where everyone feels safe.

The municipality’s chief physician, Ánne Lájlá Westerfjell Kalstad, is spearheading a new action plan aimed at preventing sexual assault, with the initiative titled “Trygg i Kautokeino” (Safe in Kautokeino). This long-term project aims to promote openness around these issues in Sápmi and establish a collaborative approach to prevention involving the entire community.

Kautokeino’s mayor, Anders S. Buljo, has committed to taking this matter seriously, acknowledging the urgency for ongoing efforts to combat these societal challenges. The local government is pledging to keep this vital work in focus and ensure adequate resources for effective implementation.