Indigenous Two Spirited People: Historical and Current Duality of Marginalization

OBA Aboriginal Law Section and Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Committee (SOGIC) PROGRAM.

The term Two-Spirit, means different things in different communities. It is an English term that was used in 1990 during the Third Annual Inter-Tribal Native American, First Nations, Gay and Lesbian American Conference in Winnipeg. There are many possible acronyms that cover sexual and gender minorities – LGBTQ2S, 2SLBTQ, LGBTQQIP2SAA, QUILTBAG – all with advantages and limitations. No acronym is perfect. Some Indigenous people use Two-Spirit exclusively and some prefer only the term specific to their identity. It is important to be aware that there are a number of gender and sexual minorities that are not included in some of the acronyms such as asexual, intersex, pansexual, pan-gender, polyamorous, and others.

Join us for an enlightened discussion on our shared past, our present status, and where we are headed. Hear about the lasting impact of colonialism on traditional Indigenous concepts of gender and sexuality as acknowledged by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Attend this program and discuss the role of law and regulatory bodies in the colonization process and how these institutions can aid in the de-colonization process. Our panelists will answer your questions and further explore the subject of Two-Spirited peoples followed by a reception where the dialogue can continue.