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Yamal Celebrates Russia's First Indigenous Minorities Day on April 30

A new holiday shines a light on Yamal's Indigenous guardians of the North. Governor Artyukhov vows to protect their heritage as thousands still embrace nomadic life.

The image shows a poster with many hands of different colors, with the quote "Culture is something...
The image shows a poster with many hands of different colors, with the quote "Culture is something that unites people" by Anastasia O. Russia written across it, emphasizing the importance of unity and diversity in our lives.

Yamal Celebrates Russia's First Indigenous Minorities Day on April 30

Yamal is marking Russia’s first Indigenous Minorities Day on April 30, 2025. The new holiday celebrates the region’s Nenets, Khanty, and Selkup peoples, who make up a population of over 48,000. Governor Dmitry Artyukhov extended his congratulations to the communities on this occasion. The date, April 30, was chosen to commemorate the adoption of the federal law On Guarantees of the Rights of Indigenous Minorities of the Russian Federation. The holiday itself was officially established by a presidential decree on November 4, 2025.

In his address, Artyukhov praised the Indigenous peoples as the 'guardians of the North'. He highlighted their resilience, deep connection to their homeland, and dedication to preserving their traditions. Over 17,500 individuals in Yamal still maintain a nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyle—nearly one in three of the Indigenous population. The governor reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding their cultural heritage and traditional ways of life. His remarks underscored the importance of supporting these communities in the face of modern challenges.

The inaugural Indigenous Minorities Day in Yamal recognises the enduring traditions of its Nenets, Khanty, and Selkup peoples. With thousands still living nomadically, the holiday serves as both a celebration and a reminder of ongoing efforts to protect their heritage. The region’s leadership has pledged continued support for their cultural preservation.

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