Let the River Flow

A Sámi schoolteacher who initially hides her heritage and dismisses anti-Sámi sentiment. She evolves into a committed activist, joining nonviolent protests and canvassing for support in Oslo. Her personal journey intertwines with family tensions and a growing sense of Sámi rights as central to her identity. The story culminates in her reaffirming connection to her roots through song and leadership at the protests.

A cousin who becomes a bridge between Ester and the protest movement, he models quiet leadership and cultural pride. He supports the action through symbolic gestures like presenting a Sámi flag and offering guidance. Mihkkal’s death by suicide deeply affects Ester, elevating the stakes of the struggle and fueling the community’s resolve.

Another Sámi protester Ester meets at Stilla, who embodies the solidarity and shared purpose of the movement. She represents the younger generation's commitment to safeguarding Sámi rights and culture through collective action. Her presence reinforces the sense of community among participants.

A colleague who flirts with Ester outside the bar, highlighting the everyday social dynamics and tensions within the community. His interactions show the mix of personal and political life present in the protest era. He serves as a reminder of the friction between individual desire and collective action.

A Sámi student who experiences social exclusion and harassment in school, reflecting the broader discrimination faced by Sámi youth. Ester witnesses and responds to these challenges, underscoring the connection between education, identity, and civil rights. Ailu’s experiences anchor the urgency of community advocacy.

Ester’s grandmother, a source of traditional memory and language—she shares the yoik and the heavy history of residential schools. Áhkku helps Ester reconnect with Sámi roots and navigate the emotional terrain of intergenerational trauma. Her presence anchors the cultural continuity that motivates the protest movement.

Ester’s mother, who lives with her Norwegian husband and son. She recounts painful histories of residential schooling and expresses doubts about a Sámi future, creating tension with Ester. Over the course of the story, she confronts the costs of assimilation and ultimately participates in the family reconciliation scenes.

Máret’s Norwegian husband who provides support for Ester’s civil disobedience. His stance reflects a bridging position between Sámi activism and the broader Norwegian society. He plays a pivotal role in sustaining Ester’s commitment during difficult moments.

Máret and Stein’s son, a child who symbolizes the future generation. Ester interacts with him and even shares important cultural moments, such as passing on the Four Winds hat and a sense of belonging. His presence grounds the personal stakes of the political struggle.