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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261021T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261021T210000
DTSTAMP:20261001T185634Z
CREATED:20260826T203132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T185634Z
UID:10008392-1792609200-1792616400@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Exhibit G Book Talk with Fady Joudah
DESCRIPTION:Join a reading and conversation with award-winning poet and translator Fady Joudah\, presented by Milkweed Editions and Mizna. \n\nNote: This event is accessible and will include an ASL interpreter. \n\n\n\n\nAbout EXHIBIT G: Fady Joudah writes from the split perspective of a Palestinian American physician caring for the sick while watching the destruction of Gaza from the United States\, a nation complicit in that destruction. He locates the paradox of his position everywhere: in the seed a sparrow eats from his proffered hand; in his writing in English\, the oppressor’s language; in the faces of Palestinian children receiving meals from aid kitchens—a glimpse into what his life could have been\, and what is being lost in a war disproportionately impacting children and their families. Throughout the book\, beauty insists on its survival not only through the Palestinian people\, but also through the nonhuman world in which he takes occasional refuge from the devastation that humanity brings upon itself. \n\nAbout the author: Fady Joudah is the author of […]\, a finalist for the National Book Award and winner of the Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize\, and Exhibit G. His other poetic works include: The Earth in the Attic; Alight; Textu\, a book-long sequence of short poems whose meter is based on cellphone character count; Footnotes in the Order of Disappearance; and Tethered to Stars. He has translated several collections of poetry from the Arabic and is the co-editor and co-founder of the Etel Adnan Poetry Prize. He was a winner of the Yale Series of Younger Poets competition and has received the Jackson Poetry Prize\, a PEN award\, a Banipal/Times Literary Supplement prize from the UK\, the Griffin Poetry Prize\, a Guggenheim Fellowship\, and the Arab American Book Award. He lives in Houston\, with his wife and kids\, where he practices internal medicine.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/an-evening-with-fady-joudah/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261018T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261018T200000
DTSTAMP:20260921T233110Z
CREATED:20260707T163745Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T233110Z
UID:10008279-1792350000-1792353600@asimn.org
SUMMARY:FIKA Supper Club Concert Series: OK Factor and Jaerv
DESCRIPTION:Join us to kick off the 2026-2027 season of the FIKA Supper Club Concert Series with OK Factor and Jaerv. This collaboration between highly 2 highly acclaimed folk ensembles from the US and Sweden has delighted audiences in both countries. They return to ASI together with new songs and stories to tell. \nThe FIKA Supper Club series brings Nordic-inflected folk\, jazz and classical artists to ASI. Optionally\, guests may enjoy extended dinner hours at FIKA Café before the concert\, then step into Larson Hall for a musical treat beginning at 7 pm. Don’t miss these nights of musical and culinary delight! \n  \nAdditional information: \n\nLimited dinner reservations and a cash bar are available from 4-7 pm. To reserve your table\, email fika@asimn.org.\nAdvanced registration recommended. If available\, tickets at the door will increase to $40.\nNEW this season: purchase a FIKA Supper Club Season Package for $175 ($150 ASI member). Join us for 6 terrific Nordic-inflected folk\, jazz\, and classical music concerts for the price of 5! This option is available at checkout through October 18.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/fika-supper-club-concert-series-ok-factor-and-jaerv/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261004T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261004T143000
DTSTAMP:20260921T232916Z
CREATED:20260707T163907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T232916Z
UID:10008278-1791118800-1791124200@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Nordic Music Workshop: Polska of the People with Renee Vaughan
DESCRIPTION:Join Renee Vaughan for free workshop for musicians\, Polska of the People: Hello Groove!  \nCome explore the unique rhythms of Swedish folk music\, the polska in all her glorious forms. This is an open and supportive space for musicians of all instruments and experience levels who want to better understand what makes a tune belong to the greater Swedish polska family. We’ll explore the basic rhythmic framework of polska\, how the music relates to the dance\, and the different ways musicians can find their own way within it. We’ll learn a couple of very accessible groovy tunes from Södermanland to get us started. Bring your instruments. All instruments welcome\, all experience levels welcome.  You are also welcome to come listen and learn.   \nRenee’s been playing Swedish folk music for nearly 20 years and have always been drawn to its rhythms and melodies. This summer\, she studied Swedish folk music with master musicians Cajsa Ekstav and Christina Frohm\, as well as traditional Swedish dance with master dance instructor Bert Persson and is bringing that learning back to the Twin Cities. This program is supported by the American Scandinavian Foundation.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/nordic-music-and-dance-workshop-with-renee-vaughan/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261001T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261001T200000
DTSTAMP:20261008T143243Z
CREATED:20260707T151253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T143243Z
UID:10008311-1790879400-1790884800@asimn.org
SUMMARY:CANCELLED Swedish Icons
DESCRIPTION:This program has been canceled. \n\nEnjoy four historic Thursday evenings with Jessica Karlsson\, an ASI Language Instructor and Historian\, this October. In this lecture series\, participants will meet four intriguing Swedish Icons and learn about their lasting impact on the world through an historic lens. Suffragettes\, diplomats\, champions of childrens’ rights\, inventors\, and more\, don’t miss this opportunity to dive into history and get to know these Swedish greats! \nOct 1 – Astrid Lindgren\, 1907–2002\nMostly known as the author of Pippi Longstocking\, Astrid Lindgren was a prolific and far-reaching author of childrens’ books translated across the globe\, as well as a champion of childrens’ rights. \nOct 8 – Raoul Wallenberg\, 1912–unknown\nRaoul Wallenberg became a Swedish Diplomat who traveled to Budapest and saved tens of thousands of Jews during the Holocaust in 1944 before ultimately disappearing. \nOct 22 – Selma Lagerlöf\, 1858–1940\nLagerlöf was not only the first woman ever to receive the Nobel Prize in literature in 1909\, but also was an active member in the Swedish suffrage movement and stood up for the underserved in society. \nOct 29 – Alfred Nobel 1833–1896\nAlfred Nobel is best known as the inventor of dynamite and the founder of the prestigious Nobel Prize but was also an intriguing figure of contrasts. \nAdditional information: \n\nNo materials or knowledge of Swedish required.\nInstructor will use slideshows in combination with printed materials.\nAdvance registration required.\nNo class on October 15.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/swedish-icons/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Image-14-scaled.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261001T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261001T200000
DTSTAMP:20260921T225148Z
CREATED:20260707T144106Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T225148Z
UID:10008323-1790879400-1790884800@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Living Folk Costume Traditions Lecture with Kirsi Manni
DESCRIPTION:Join Kirsi Manni\, a textile artist\, historian\, and educator for a discussion about the living tradition of folk costumes around her home in Dalarna\, Sweden. Kirsi will share her story of moving to Siljasnäs\, Dalarna and becoming involved in the folk dancing and costume community\, before ultimately finding a role in documenting\, preserving\, and now passing on traditional weaving and textile techniques at risk of extinction. \nKirsi Manni is the owner of Art&Craft Sweden and lives in Siljansäs\, Dalarna. Over one week this fall\, Kirsi will bring her expertise in Leksand style folk dress to ASI. Kirsi is also offering an introductory embroidery workshop and more intensive needlework project workshop. \nAdditional information: \n\nAdvanced registration encouraged\, tickets at the door if available.\nThis program is using a Pay-what-you-can tickets pricing model. Guests can choose a $1 access ticket\, $5 access ticket\, $10 regular ticket\, or $20 Pay-it-forward ticket. More info about how to choose your amount is available at checkout.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/living-folk-costume-traditions-lecture-with-kirsi-manni/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture,Nordic Handcraft
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261001T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261001T200000
DTSTAMP:20260908T150709Z
CREATED:20260908T150709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T150709Z
UID:10008493-1790877600-1790884800@asimn.org
SUMMARY:October Open Nordic Jam
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the first Thursday of every month for Open Nordic Jam! \n\nHave you ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa\, hardingfele\, fiddle\, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is open to musicians of all levels who want to learn and play Nordic folk music. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here! \nMinnesota has long been known for its rich music scenes—in part due to the many immigrant diasporas that have established themselves in the area. From Nisswa-stämman to the Nordic Roots festival\, to the countless house jams across the state\, Nordic folk music is an important part of Minnesota’s musical identity. Whether you’re a master fiddler or want to learn more about folk music\, this monthly gathering is for you! \nThis jam is facilitated by ASI staff\, but tunes are selected each time by musicians in the room. We will play standards and originals inspired by the folk traditions of Sweden\, Norway\, Finland\, Denmark\, and Iceland. While many musicians may bring traditional instruments\, all acoustic instrumentalists are welcome to participate. If you do not play an instrument\, you can still attend if you respectfully observe and listen. Dancing is encouraged but not required—see you there! No advanced registration required.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/october-open-nordic-jam/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/1b1052041dccc16934fb41d309c66c1b-GSPtVm.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260927T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260927T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T024601Z
CREATED:20260703T181328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T024601Z
UID:10008352-1790517600-1790524800@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Nordic Book Circle
DESCRIPTION:Contemporary Nordic literature is full of diverse literary voices\, styles\, and genres. This September 2026 through May 2027 the ASI Nordic Book Circle will gather monthly\, in-person\, to read and discuss a work of Nordic literature in English translation. Our focus this year will be on works of literature written by women authors from across the Nordic world. The works we read will chronologically trace books penned between 1912 and 2020\, and include two winners of the Nobel Prize in Literature; authors from the countries of Sweden\, Norway\, Denmark\, Iceland\, Greenland; various genres; and a range of topics and perspectives. \nIf you love to read and discuss literature and would like to expand your appreciation of literature from various parts of the world (the Nordic world in particular)\, we would love to have you join! Limited to 20 attendees; please register in advance. \n2026-2027 Nordic Book Circle titles \nSeptember: Kristin Lavransdotter\, Book I: The Wreath (1912)\, by Sigrid Undset\, translated from Norwegian by Tiina Nunnally (Penguin Editions\, 336 pages)\, Norway – September 27\, 2026 \nOctober: The Phantom Carriage (1912)\, by Selma Lagerlöf\, translated from Swedish by Peter Graves (Norvik Press\, 124 pages) (Sweden) – October 25\, 2026 \nNovember: Quicksand (1928) by Nella Larsen (Penguin Classics\, 192 pages) (Denmark) – November 22\, 2026 \nDecember: Kallocain (1940)\, Karin Boye\, translated from Swedish by David McDuff (Penguin Classics\, 192 pages) (Sweden) – December 20\, 2026 \nJanuary: Girl Upon Heaven’s Pier (1951)\, by Eeva-Liisa Manner\, translated from Finnish by Terhi Kuusisto (Dalkey Archive Press\, 104 pages) (Finland) – January 31\, 2027 \nFebruary: Nothing to be Rescued (1961)\, by Ásta Sigurðardóttir\, translated from Icelandic by Meg Matich (Nordisk Books\, 192 pages) Iceland – February 28\, 2027 \nMarch: Light\, Grass\, and Letter in April (1962\, 1963\, 1979)\, by Inger Christensen\, translated from Danish by Susanna Nied (New Directions Publishing\, 144 pages) (Denmark) – March 21\, 2027 \nApril: Zombieland (2015)\, by Sørine Steenholdt\, translated from Greenlandic to Danish by Niviaq Korneliussen and from Danish to English by Charlotte Barslund (Norvik Press\, 150 pages) (Greenland) – April 25\, 2027 \nMay: Strega (2020)\, by Johanna Lykke Holm\, translated from Swedish by Saskia Vogel (Riverhead Books\, 208 pages) (Sweden) – May 23\, 2027
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/nordic-book-circle-11/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T230000
DTSTAMP:20260925T185406Z
CREATED:20260629T200420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260925T185406Z
UID:10008260-1790359200-1790377200@asimn.org
SUMMARY:[SOLD OUT!] Cocktails at the Castle—Speakeasy
DESCRIPTION:Cocktails at the Castle is sold out! Join the waitlist. \n\nExpect the unexpected at Cocktails at the Castle—ASI’s signature festival of music\, art\, and craft. This year’s theme is Speakeasy\, so wear your best swing dance outfit and get ready to dance all night long. Headlined by Naomi Uyama and Her Handsome Devils\, this night will feature the Twin Cities’ best jazz bands\, free make & take crafts\, contests with prizes\, and more! Food and drink\, including non-alcoholic options\, will be available for purchase. Event is 21+. \n\nCocktails at the Castle’s sponsors include MPR News and the Minnesota Star Tribune. \n    \n\n—Performances and activities— \nFIKA Main Stage \nNaomi Uyama and her Handsome Devils \nRick Carlson and Charmin Michelle Quartet \nTwin Cities Hot Club \n\nClub Paulson Stage \nNiny Salem Quartet \nKavyesh Kaviraj Quartet \nMary Louise Knutson Trio \n\nMansion Stage \nGolden Garters Burlesque Revue \n\nCourtyard Stage \nHot Club Mania Quartet \n\nActivities \nPhoto booth by Twin Cities Photo Bus \nMinnesota Center for Book Arts printing press make & take \nFlapper head gear make & take \n\nExperiences: \nDu Nord Distillery station \nHemlocks Leatherworks artist demo \nPresley Martin mushroom artist demo \nSilent film room (Larson Hall) \n\nFor more information about the performers and activities\, visit the Cocktails at the Castle festival page.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/cocktails-at-the-castle-speakeasy/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/FY26-Catalog-Sept-Nov-Photos-for-Web-1-Cocktails-at-the-Castle-Speakeasy-2.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260917T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260917T200000
DTSTAMP:20260921T223841Z
CREATED:20260707T164035Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T223841Z
UID:10008277-1789671600-1789675200@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Elin Anna Labba Book Talk: The Home of the Drowned
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a book talk featuring Sámi author and journalist Elin Anna Labba in conversation with Minnesota based North Sámi language educator\, Dr. Áila O’Loughlin. Drawing on her own family’s history of forced relocation and violent colonial dispossession\, Anna Labba’s debut novel\, The Home of the Drowned\, brings Sámi history to the fore through this intimate story. \n\nMake it a night out—the Turnblad Mansion with Eyes as Big as Plates on view\, FIKA Café\, and the ASI Museum Store will be open until 8 pm on 9/17! Books will be available for purchase at the event in collaboration with event partner\, University of Minnesota Press. \n\nAbout the Book:\n\nThe haunting\, multigenerational saga of a family of Sámi women fighting the devastation of their way of life. Nothing is true\, and everything is true; poetry will never hurt more than what has happened. Every summer\, Iŋgá\, her mother Rávdná\, and her Aunt Ánne travel west to their village on the lake. But the summer Iŋgá is thirteen\, they arrive to find their home and possessions have disappeared under water\, the land flooded by a dam built to supply hydropower to a society that has continually stolen from them. \n\n\nThe Home of the Drowned follows these women’s fortunes over forty years— from 1942 to 1982—as the water their people have lived near for centuries is transformed into a menacing force that threatens all they hold dear. Defying the authorities\, Rávdná decides to build a proper house on the lake to replace what was lost\, becoming an unlikely activist even as her actions isolate her family from the rest of the community. Meanwhile\, Ánne’s health is in decline\, and a concerned Iŋgá merely longs to live like everyone else—an impossible wish when the Swedish state is relentlessly drowning her world. \n\n\nDrawing on her own family’s history of forced relocation and violent colonial dispossession\, Elin Anna Labba’s debut novel brings Sámi history to the fore through this intimate story. In poetic prose deftly translated by Elizabeth Clark Wessel\, she reveals connections between land\, water\, and people that hauntingly reverberate with the question: what is it that makes a home? \n\nAbout the presenters:\n\nElin Anna Labba is a Sámi journalist and author from the arctic region of Sweden. Her first book\, The Rocks Will Echo Our Sorrow: The Forced Displacement of the Northern Sámi\, also published in translation by the University of Minnesota Press\, won the 2020 August Prize for Best Nonfiction in Sweden. The Swedish publication of The Home of the Drowned was awarded the Norrland Literature Prize in 2025. \n\n\nDr. Áila O’Loughlin is a Sámi-American philosophy professor at North Hennepin Community College and a former high school English teacher of ten years. As a heritage learner of North Sámi\, Áila is passionate about cultivating Sámi language and culture groups in Minnesota–home to the largest population of Sámi diaspora in the United States. \n\n\nAdvanced registration required
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/elin-anna-labba-book-talk-the-home-of-the-drowned/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/e9a7757d11873eb44f41ad36e1420c2e-WJK6GX.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260903T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260903T200000
DTSTAMP:20260908T150442Z
CREATED:20260908T150442Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T150442Z
UID:10008492-1788458400-1788465600@asimn.org
SUMMARY:September Open Nordic Jam
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the first Thursday of every month for Open Nordic Jam! \n\nHave you ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa\, hardingfele\, fiddle\, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is open to musicians of all levels who want to learn and play Nordic folk music. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here! \nMinnesota has long been known for its rich music scenes—in part due to the many immigrant diasporas that have established themselves in the area. From Nisswa-stämman to the Nordic Roots festival\, to the countless house jams across the state\, Nordic folk music is an important part of Minnesota’s musical identity. Whether you’re a master fiddler or want to learn more about folk music\, this monthly gathering is for you! \nThis jam is facilitated by ASI staff\, but tunes are selected each time by musicians in the room. We will play standards and originals inspired by the folk traditions of Sweden\, Norway\, Finland\, Denmark\, and Iceland. While many musicians may bring traditional instruments\, all acoustic instrumentalists are welcome to participate. If you do not play an instrument\, you can still attend if you respectfully observe and listen. Dancing is encouraged but not required—see you there! No advanced registration required.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/september-open-nordic-jam/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/1b1052041dccc16934fb41d309c66c1b-GSPtVm.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260806T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260806T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T134255Z
CREATED:20260407T170253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T134255Z
UID:10008039-1786039200-1786046400@asimn.org
SUMMARY:August Open Nordic Jam
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the first Thursday of every month for Open Nordic Jam! \n\nHave you ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa\, hardingfele\, fiddle\, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is open to musicians of all levels who want to learn and play Nordic folk music. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here! \nMinnesota has long been known for its rich music scenes—in part due to the many immigrant diasporas that have established themselves in the area. From Nisswa-stämman to the Nordic Roots festival\, to the countless house jams across the state\, Nordic folk music is an important part of Minnesota’s musical identity. Whether you’re a master fiddler or want to learn more about folk music\, this monthly gathering is for you! \nThis jam is facilitated by ASI staff\, but tunes are selected each time by musicians in the room. We will play standards and originals inspired by the folk traditions of Sweden\, Norway\, Finland\, Denmark\, and Iceland. While many musicians may bring traditional instruments\, all acoustic instrumentalists are welcome to participate. If you do not play an instrument\, you can still attend if you respectfully observe and listen. Dancing is encouraged but not required—see you there! No advanced registration required.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/august-open-nordic-jam/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/1b1052041dccc16934fb41d309c66c1b-GSPtVm.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260722T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260722T200000
DTSTAMP:20261008T142145Z
CREATED:20260407T171655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T142145Z
UID:10008076-1784743200-1784750400@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Sápmi Histories of Colonization with Christian Hans Pedersen
DESCRIPTION:The Sámi (Northern Sámi: Sápmelaččat or Sámit) are the only recognized Indigenous people in Europe\, whose lands\, Sápmi\, are claimed and divided by the Norwegian\, Swedish\, Finnish\, and Russian nation-states. Despite the central roles they’ve played in the political\, economic\, and cultural histories of Northern Europe\, the Sámi are commonly depicted as ahistorical wildlings whose lands are an unused frontier\, ripe for development. This engaging series of lectures illuminates how untrue those depictions are. \nAbout the series: \n\nIn “Sámi History 101\,” we’ll examine the fundamentals of Sámi history and culture\, surveying oral histories\, subsistence practices\, societal organization\, and Sámi cultural icons.\nIn session two\, “Sámi History 102\,” we’ll expand on the topics in session one by inspecting how historical relations and archaeological\, linguistic\, and genetic studies contribute to the study of Sámi history.\nIn “Sámi Histories of Colonization\,” we’ll dive into how encroachment\, taxation\, and borders\, among others\, constructed and construct Fennoscandic colonialisms\, creating a timeline of how colonization has looked and still looks in Sápmi.\nIn the final segment\, “Sápmi Today\,” we’ll trace those legacies to the present to contextualize Sámi survivance\, or survival through resistance\, by examining political organizing\, rights\, and contemporary forms of colonization in Sápmi.\n\nAdditional information: \n\nA recommended reading and media list will be mailed out to all participants following the first session.\nThese live lectures will be held on Wednesday evenings over Zoom.\nAttendance requires a reliable internet connection and a device with audio and video functionality.\nAdvanced registration required; each lecture has a separate registration.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/sapmi-histories-of-colonization-with-christian-hans-pedersen/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture,Language Learning
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/1d216e31d912b115320fe0416435e255-E6Si2K.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T200000
DTSTAMP:20261008T142140Z
CREATED:20260407T171655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T142140Z
UID:10008075-1784138400-1784145600@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Sámi History 102 with Christian Hans Pedersen
DESCRIPTION:The Sámi (Northern Sámi: Sápmelaččat or Sámit) are the only recognized Indigenous people in Europe\, whose lands\, Sápmi\, are claimed and divided by the Norwegian\, Swedish\, Finnish\, and Russian nation-states. Despite the central roles they’ve played in the political\, economic\, and cultural histories of Northern Europe\, the Sámi are commonly depicted as ahistorical wildlings whose lands are an unused frontier\, ripe for development. This engaging series of lectures illuminates how untrue those depictions are. \nAbout the series: \n\nIn “Sámi History 101\,” we’ll examine the fundamentals of Sámi history and culture\, surveying oral histories\, subsistence practices\, societal organization\, and Sámi cultural icons.\nIn session two\, “Sámi History 102\,” we’ll expand on the topics in session one by inspecting how historical relations and archaeological\, linguistic\, and genetic studies contribute to the study of Sámi history.\nIn “Sámi Histories of Colonization\,” we’ll dive into how encroachment\, taxation\, and borders\, among others\, constructed and construct Fennoscandic colonialisms\, creating a timeline of how colonization has looked and still looks in Sápmi.\nIn the final segment\, “Sápmi Today\,” we’ll trace those legacies to the present to contextualize Sámi survivance\, or survival through resistance\, by examining political organizing\, rights\, and contemporary forms of colonization in Sápmi.\n\nAdditional information: \n\nA recommended reading and media list will be mailed out to all participants following the first session.\nThese live lectures will be held on Wednesday evenings over Zoom.\nAttendance requires a reliable internet connection and a device with audio and video functionality.\nAdvanced registration required; each lecture has a separate registration.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/sami-history-102-with-christian-hans-pedersen/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture,Language Learning
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260604T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260604T200000
DTSTAMP:20261008T141826Z
CREATED:20260407T173100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T141826Z
UID:10008112-1780596000-1780603200@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Illuminating Immigration in Media: Contemporary Perspectives from Sweden and the Twin Cities
DESCRIPTION:The inaugural Edward and Elizabeth Carlson Sweden Project event will take place on June 4\, 2026\, and feature journalists from The Local Sweden and Sahan Journal in conversation about how immigration issues are covered in Sweden and Minnesota. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to gain new perspectives on immigration in both the Swedish and US contexts. \nImmigrant communities around the world have specific needs for information not always covered by traditional newspapers and have historically benefitted from news sources dedicated to their distinct experiences. James Savage (The Local Sweden) is joining Andrew Hazzard and Shubhanjana Das (Sahan Journal) in a panel discussion to their experiences working for mission-driven newsrooms covering stories for and about immigrants in Sweden and Minnesota. \nModerated by Fred de Sam Lazaro (Under-Told Stories\, PBS NewsHour)\, the conversation will explore contemporary immigration issues in Sweden and Minnesota and their recent historical context through the lens of journalism\, illuminating how coverage differs in each country and what we can learn from each other. Additionally\, event attendees will hear firsthand about what it’s like being a journalist in each country and working for a newsroom with a specific purpose: to provide essential information for immigrant communities. \nPANELISTS: \nJames Savage is Founder and Publishing Director of The Local\, the biggest source of local news and advice for international professionals/expats in nine European countries. His focus is on building reader revenues and making news sustainable in the 21st century for the benefit of diverse audiences across Europe. He writes about Swedish and European affairs for The Local and is a frequent commentator in Swedish media on British and Swedish affairs. He is chair of the Swedish Magazine Publishers’ Association (Sveriges tidskrifter) and chair of Utgivarna\, which gathers all major Swedish media companies to speak on areas of common interest and promote free speech. He won Sveriges Tidskrifter’s Grand Prize in 2021 for his contributions to the Swedish media industry. James lives in Stockholm and is originally from Lincolnshire\, England. \nAndrew Hazzard is a reporter with Sahan Journal who focuses on climate change and environmental justice issues. After starting his career in daily newspapers in Mississippi and North Dakota\, Andrew returned to Minneapolis where he worked for local publications such as Southwest Journal. He is a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism and a member of the Society of Environmental Journalists. Andrew enjoys travel\, speaks Spanish\, and is a depressed supporter of Minnesota’s professional sports teams. He and his wife live in Minneapolis. \nShubhanjana Das is a reporter at Sahan Journal. She is a journalist from India and previously worked as a reporting fellow at Sahan before stepping into her current role. Before moving to the U.S.\, she spent five years working as an independent journalist in India\, writing for outlets including VICE\, Vogue\, The Indian Express\, and Mongabay. She is a 2026 National Press Foundation fellow and graduated from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in 2025. \nMODERATOR: \nFred de Sam Lazaro is the founder and executive director of the Under-Told StoriesProject and has served as a correspondent for the PBS NewsHour\, since 1985. He also was a regular contributor and substitute anchor for PBS’ Religion and Ethics Newsweekly. Fred also has directed films from India and the Democratic Republic of Congo for the acclaimed documentary series\, Wide Angle. Fred has reported from 70 countries with a focus on the myriad issues that underlie poverty and human suffering which are under-reported in the mainstream U.S. media. \nADDITIONAL INFORMATION: \n\nAdvanced registration encouraged\, tickets at the door if available.\nThe American Swedish Institute (ASI) was founded by Swan Turnblad\, a Swedish immigrant to Minnesota who created Svenska Amerikanska Posten\, a Swedish-language newspaper (1885–1940) serving the Swedish immigrant population in Minnesota. Sharing stories of migration\, identity\, and belonging are central to the mission of ASI.\nThe Local Sweden was founded in 2004 to cover Swedish news and essential information in English for immigrants\, frequent visitors\, and others interested in Swedish news and has since expanded to offer coverage in nine European countries.\nSahan Journal was founded in 2019 as a nonprofit digital newsroom dedicated to reporting for immigrants and communities of color in Minnesota.\nThis event is part of the Edward and Elizabeth Carlson Sweden Project\, which provides a lens on contemporary Sweden through conversations with renowned Swedish scholars and leaders.\nFunding comes from a generous gift from Steve and Cathy Carlson in honor of Edward and Elizabeth Carlson.\nAdditional support is provided by Sahan Journal.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/illuminating-immigration-in-media-contemporary-perspectives-from-sweden-and-the-twin-cities/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260604T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260604T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T134326Z
CREATED:20260407T170241Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T134326Z
UID:10008037-1780596000-1780603200@asimn.org
SUMMARY:June Open Nordic Jam
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the first Thursday of every month for Open Nordic Jam! \n\nHave you ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa\, hardingfele\, fiddle\, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is open to musicians of all levels who want to learn and play Nordic folk music. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here! \nMinnesota has long been known for its rich music scenes—in part due to the many immigrant diasporas that have established themselves in the area. From Nisswa-stämman to the Nordic Roots festival\, to the countless house jams across the state\, Nordic folk music is an important part of Minnesota’s musical identity. Whether you’re a master fiddler or want to learn more about folk music\, this monthly gathering is for you! \nThis jam is facilitated by ASI staff\, but tunes are selected each time by musicians in the room. We will play standards and originals inspired by the folk traditions of Sweden\, Norway\, Finland\, Denmark\, and Iceland. While many musicians may bring traditional instruments\, all acoustic instrumentalists are welcome to participate. If you do not play an instrument\, you can still attend if you respectfully observe and listen. Dancing is encouraged but not required—see you there! No advanced registration required.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/june-open-nordic-jam/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260602T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260602T180000
DTSTAMP:20261008T142448Z
CREATED:20260407T171055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T142448Z
UID:10008060-1780417800-1780423200@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Sweden's History: The Country\, the Nation\, the State with Gregg White
DESCRIPTION:This class meets weekly on Tuesdays from June 2–July 7\, 2026. \n\nThis course\, taught by Gregg White\, introduces the history of Sweden. In six weeks\, this class will cover the geography (the country)\, the history (the nation)\, and the political system (the state) of Sweden. The class will learn how these three important factors shaped what we know as “Swedishness”\, from the melting of the ice-age glaciers to the development of the “third way” of social democracy. Materials provided by the instructor; students will be given links to handouts they can print before each class. Advanced registration required.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/swedens-history-the-country-the-nation-the-state-with-gregg-white/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T160000
DTSTAMP:20260218T192855Z
CREATED:20251205T203422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260218T192855Z
UID:10007030-1780236000-1780243200@asimn.org
SUMMARY:Nordic Book Circle
DESCRIPTION:Contemporary Nordic literature is full of diverse literary voices\, styles\, and genres. This September 2025 through May 2026 the ASI Nordic Book Circle will gather monthly\, in-person\, to read and discuss a work of Nordic literature in English translation.  We will focus on works of twentieth and twenty-first century literature that explore senses of place. From rural to urban\, past to present\, in the Nordic countries and beyond\, we will gather monthly around the selected list of readings by Nordic authors to consider the varieties of places—and the environments\, communities\, and particular qualities that each of the places considered in these literary works—hold. If you love to read and discuss literature and would like to expand your appreciation of literature from various parts of the world (the Nordic world in particular)\, we would love to have you join! Limited to 20 attendees; please register in advance. \n2025-26 Nordic Book Circle titles\nGrowth of the Soil\, Knut Hamsun (Norway\, trans. Sverre Lyngstad) – September 28\, 2025 \nWitches’ Rings\, Kerstin Ekman (Sweden\, trans. Linda Schenck) – October 26\, 2025 \nCity of My Dreams\, Per Anders Fogelström (Sweden\, trans. Jennifer Brown Bäverstam)  – November 23\, 2025 \nPopular Music from Vittula\, Mikael Niemi (Sweden\, trans. Laurie Thompson) – December 21\, 2025 \nOut of Africa\, Karen Blixen (Denmark) – January 25\, 2026 \nThe Atom Station\, Halldor Laxness (Iceland\, trans. Magnus Magnusson) – February 22\, 2026 \nThe Tower at the Edge of the World\, William Heinesen (Faroe Islands\, trans. W. Glyn Jones) – March 22\, 2026 \nThe Employees\, Olga Ravn (Denmark\, trans. Martin Aitken) – April 26\, 2026 \nThe Summer Book\, Tove Jansson (Finland\, trans. Thomas Teal) – May 31\, 2026
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/nordic-book-circle-8/
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/1.14.26-Wed-Swed-Lit-Hanslin-scaled.avif
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260507T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260507T200000
DTSTAMP:20260408T041145Z
CREATED:20260407T212545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T041145Z
UID:10008121-1778176800-1778184000@asimn.org
SUMMARY:May Open Nordic Jam
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the first Thursday of every month for Open Nordic Jam! \n\nHave you ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa\, hardingfele\, fiddle\, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is open to musicians of all levels who want to learn and play Nordic folk music. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here! \nMinnesota has long been known for its rich music scenes—in part due to the many immigrant diasporas that have established themselves in the area. From Nisswa-stämman to the Nordic Roots festival\, to the countless house jams across the state\, Nordic folk music is an important part of Minnesota’s musical identity. Whether you’re a master fiddler or want to learn more about folk music\, this monthly gathering is for you! \nThis jam is facilitated by ASI staff\, but tunes are selected each time by musicians in the room. We will play standards and originals inspired by the folk traditions of Sweden\, Norway\, Finland\, Denmark\, and Iceland. While many musicians may bring traditional instruments\, all acoustic instrumentalists are welcome to participate. If you do not play an instrument\, you can still attend if you respectfully observe and listen. Dancing is encouraged but not required—see you there! No advanced registration required.
URL:https://asimn.org/events-calendar/may-open-nordic-jam/
LOCATION:American Swedish Institute
CATEGORIES:Arts & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://asimn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/1b1052041dccc16934fb41d309c66c1b-GSPtVm.avif
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END:VCALENDAR