MultiBEING symposium: Indigenous relationships with time
The Centre of Excellence is organising a kick-off symposium at the University of Helsinki on 28 September 2026. It brings together internationally renowned scholars, artists and knowledge holders to engage with diverse Indigenous conceptions of time, which shape how relationships with other beings are lived, valued and understood.
Event description
The MultiBEING kick-off symposium at the University of Helsinki engages with diverse Indigenous notions of time and explores the connections and lineages among beings. Conceptions of time shape how relationships with other beings are lived, valued and understood. Non-linear conceptions of time are key to understanding Indigenous relational onto-epistemologies. The speakers highlight philosophies of time, seasonalities, traditional calendars, ancestralities, astronomy, and diverse temporalities and timelines. What role do these play in rethinking multibeing flourishing and human responsibilities beyond humans?
The confirmed international and MultiBEING speakers include:
Kyle Powys Whyte (University of Michigan)
Carl Mika (University of Canterbury)
Shandin Pete (University of British Columbia)
Jelena Porsanger (University of Helsinki / Riddo Duottar Museat)
Francisco Apurinã and Pirjo Kristiina Virtanen (University of Helsinki)
Áile Aikio (University of Lapland)
Victoria Soyan Peemot (University of Helsinki)
Maria Fedina (University of Helsinki)
Nicola Renzi (University of Helsinki) and Jakop Janssønn (Arktisk Filharmoni)
Opening words by Dean Johanna Viimaranta.
Evend details
The more detailed programme will be announced soon. Registration is open until 23 September via this form.
Date and time: Monday 28 September 2026, 09.00–17.00
Venue: Tekla Hultin and Small Hall (Fabianinkatu 33, Main Building of the University of Helsinki)
