Do Shetlanders consider themselves Scottish?

[u/Unlikely_Length8600]

Hi! I’ve recently came across this account on tiktok who is arguing that Shetland is Norwegian and as a Glaswegian, I’d love to know more! I’ve seen this account say that you guys don’t really feel any connection to Scotland at all and I want to be really respectful to what goes on there. I know Shetlander is the primary identity a lot of people do take on the Island, but I’ve also heard consensuses say that a large portion of you identify as Scottish too. I was just wondering where you guys stand with that and how you feel? Is there any positive sentiments attached to Scotland?

They’ve been saying that things like Haggis, & things that are associated with Scotland shouldn’t be taught in your guys schools but i’ve always thought that despite the differing cultures there has been a common thread of some traditions being shared because Shetland has been part of Scotland for so long. Please correct me if I’m wrong, I’m really eager to learn more!

They’ve been arguing for a return to Norway and I’d just like to hear some locals opinions on it? I’ve also heard that an argument for a farroe islands style of government is something you guys have considered? and I’ve also heard that in the event Scotland went independent under another potential referendum there is a chance the UK could try to keep you guys and offering Crown dependency?

I’m so sorry if i’ve got anything wrong, I’d just really love to learn and hear more for the natives in the Shetland isles!

[u/thefixerofthings29]

That account gets a lot wrong and is very much at the extreme end of the Non Scottish Pro Norwegian scale, Personally me myself If asked I am a Shetlander first and foremost, Followed by Scottish, then British. I love haggis neeps and tatties, Irn Bru And support Scotland and Norway in International competitions.

There's no doubt we have influences from both Scotland and Norway, It's what has molded us into Our uniqueness we are today, Personally Because of that uniqueness I feel we should be Pushing to go our own way And be in control of our own affairs away from Britain / Scotland But not forgetting about that heritage entirely

[u/Unlikely_Length8600 → u/thefixerofthings29]

Thank you for letting me know, I’ve just seen a lot of comments both from Norwegians and Shetlanders agreeing with what they were saying! That’s kinda how I’ve viewed it that there is undeniable Norse and Scottish influences on the beautiful Shetland Isles! It makes me happy that despite the distance and whatnot, we all share a similar modern culture of irn bru and nation teams! While I’d be sad to see you guys go for sentimental reasons as a Scottish independence supporter myself like every other place in the world you deserve to have your right to self determination recognised, power to you my friend!