Did you know that many Indigenous peoples of the Arctic traditionally drink reindeer blood and that this practice has been essential for survival in extreme northern environments? In regions where plant life is scarce for much of the year, reindeer blood provides vital vitamins and minerals that sustain health and resilience in some of the world’s harshest climates.
This compelling insight was one of many shared during an outstanding presentation by Askar Garipov to the IHEAL (Indigenous Health, Education, and Life) Club at Washington-Liberty High School. Askar delivered a highly informative and engaging talk on the central role of reindeer in Indigenous medicine, healing ceremonies, and everyday life across Arctic and Subarctic regions. His presentation highlighted the traditions of reindeer-herding and hunting peoples, including the Sámi, Nenets, Evenki, Chukchi, Inuit, and Inupiat.
With exceptional professionalism, clarity, and confidence, Askar presented complex cultural, environmental, and health-related concepts in a way that was both accessible and intellectually stimulating. Through well-structured visuals and thoughtful explanations, he demonstrated how every part of the reindeer – from meat and blood to hide, sinew, antlers, and fat plays a critical role in nutrition, healing, clothing, tools, and spiritual practices. The presentation generated strong interest and meaningful discussion, underscoring Askar’s ability to communicate Indigenous knowledge with respect, depth, and academic rigor.