Understanding the Two-Spirit identity

By Daniel Itai

A research recently compiled by the Community-Based Research Centre (CBRC) and the Two-Spirit Dry Lab has unveiled intriguing information about what it means to be Two-Spirit (2S).

According to the publication titled, Two-Spirit Terminology Guide: Commonly Asked Questions & Answers Regarding Two-Spirit Peoples, the concept of 2S is present throughout many indigenous cultures, often referring to teachings and ways that existed prior to colonization.

"As a concept, Two-Spirit predates and exists in many nations and is not just an indigenous equivalent for LGBTTQQIAAP+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Transsexual, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual/Aromantic, Agender, and Pansexual). Being Two-Spirit took diverse forms within the hundreds of nations and had its own term or definitions in their respective languages. Being Two-Spirit frequently involved special work roles in society such as weavers, healers, mediators, caretakers, sacred status, roles in ceremonies, same-sex romantic or sexual relations, and may have also included wearing gender affirming clothing," read part of the research.

In addition the research went on to cite that the term 2S reflects the fact that indigenous nations of gender or sexuality predate contemporary understandings and acknowledges and recognizes that Two-Spirit indigenous people were the first sexual and gender minority people.

"As a concept there is an understanding that the term Two-Spirit is a placeholder for the historic individual community and nation specific terms that were in place prior to colonization. When viewing Two-Spirit through a conceptual framework, we can understand the unique traits and beautiful complexities that each Two-Spirit person carries. It does not provide room for the many co-living aspects of one’s uniqueness, whereas viewing the term through a conceptual understanding can help unpack the many layers of current and historic responsibilities for 2S people.

It is only appropriate for indigenous people to use this term, as it applies to the culture of each nation in a very specific way. Two-Spirit is not a placeholder for LGBTTQQIAAP+ identities, it includes various ways of life," read the research.

However, 2S is not mutually exclusive to the LGBTTQQIAAP+ spectrum, many indigenous people who identify as 2S also identify with other orientations and is not interchangeable with contemporary definitions of sex and gender orientation. This concept is individual and nation specific, and its purpose is to be utilized as an organizing tool to bring together indigenous individuals who identify as 2S. It also acts as a tool of decolonization, as 2S people seek to understand their identity in a pre-colonial context.