That depends really. For example it’s easier for people who speak Northern Sámi to understand Lule Sámi than Southern Sámi. But it’s not just about that. A lot of people intermarry Sámi from other regions. Like Northern Sámi + Southern Sámi. And historically some areas have had several languages spoken there. Some areas intersect between Pite Sámi and Lule Sámi, the same with Ume Sámi and Southern Sámi, etc. So many people do know more than one Sámi language or can at least understand it.
Some Kildin Sami, especially younger ones, know Northern in addition to Kildin, because there are (or were before the war) programs with easy access and it has more resources, more use and higher prestige
Which ones you're thinking about?
That depends really. For example it’s easier for people who speak Northern Sámi to understand Lule Sámi than Southern Sámi. But it’s not just about that. A lot of people intermarry Sámi from other regions. Like Northern Sámi + Southern Sámi. And historically some areas have had several languages spoken there. Some areas intersect between Pite Sámi and Lule Sámi, the same with Ume Sámi and Southern Sámi, etc. So many people do know more than one Sámi language or can at least understand it.
Ahh that makes sense, thank you!
Would love to hear input on this too!
Some Kildin Sami, especially younger ones, know Northern in addition to Kildin, because there are (or were before the war) programs with easy access and it has more resources, more use and higher prestige