Two-Spirit refers to the embodiment of both masculine and feminine spirits and is also an umbrella term used by many Indigenous people to describe their sexual, gender and/or spiritual identity.
The following are a few groups across the country that have the goal of helping out and improving the lives of Two-Spirit people.
2 Spirited People of the 1st Nations
Toronto, Ontario
2 Spirited People of the 1st Nations is a non-profit organization in Toronto that goes back to 1989, and from the very beginning worked to raise awareness in Indigenous communities about the impact of HIV/AIDS. The organization offers a number of programs and services, including counselling and referrals, workshops, presentations, social and cultural events and research projects.
To find out more about 2 Spirited, visit 2spirits.com or find them on Facebook here.
Two-Spirited People of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Two-Spirit People of Manitoba has a mission of improving the quality of life of Two-Spirit people in that province. Part of this mission is advocacy work and raising funds to help provide education, health services, housing, employment training and cultural development. Two-Spirit People of Manitoba also offers workshops on Indigenous cultural awareness, understanding Two-Spirit people, HIV/AIDs education, anti-homophobia training and traditional beading and craft-making.
Check out Two-Spirited People of Manitoba’s website here to find out more.
Dancing to Eagle Spirit Society
Vancouver, British Columbia
The Dancing to Eagle Spirit Society is a charitable organization in Vancouver that works to “advance Native American healing and spiritual principles for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people who self identify as Two-Spirit,” according to its website. The organization offers a number of spiritual practices, including Two-Spirit and friends sweat lodge ceremonies, smudging circles, traditional workshops, crafting, beading and drum making workshops and spiritual fasts.
Learn more about what the Dancing to Eagle Spirit Society offers on its website here.
Indigenous Women and Two Spirit Harm Reduction Coalition
Montreal, Quebec
The Indigenous Women and Two Spirit Harm Reduction Coalition provides harm reduction resources, referrals and services to Indigenous people in Montreal.
You can find this group on Facebook here and some information about its work at this site.
Aboriginal Two-Spirit Youth and Diverse Identities
Toronto, Ontario
Aboriginal Two-Spirit Youth and Diverse Identities is a youth-led drop in for Indigenous Two Spirit youth at risk of homelessness, or who are homeless, in Toronto. It’s designed to be a safe space for Indigenous Two-Spirit youth that values and respects their identities.
Find out more on their Facebook page.
Are you familiar with any other groups or organizations that focus on Two-Spirit people in Canada? Let us know!
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