5 things I’ve learned about Two-Spirit identity

Written by Shaneeka Forrester for RTOERO in honour of Pride Month 2025. Shaneeka is a Cree artist, mother and advocate from Brunswick House First Nation, planting roots in Simcoe County, Ontario.

Over the years, I have spent time reflecting, listening and learning from communities around me to better understand what Two-Spirit means. When I am unfamiliar with something, I like to take on the role of a curious student and learn as much as possible. Often, this means listening to the stories of others and taking action as an ally. As we approach June, I feel this is a great time to share some things I have learned about the 2s in LGBTQIA2S+.

Two-spirit: A term rooted in identity and awareness

The term “Two Spirit” was coined in 1990, after a conference that took place in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The term is not just a label—it’s also used to help raise awareness within Indigenous communities and is frequently seen as a third gender. Since the development of the term, it has undergone scrutiny but has gained popularity among Indigenous individuals who identify with its meaning. Two-Spirit represents individuals who embody a spiritual blend of feminine and masculine influences; a concept that weaves together areas of gender and sexual identity. It is a terminology that individuals outside of Indigenous communities may relate to but it is used exclusively by Individuals of Indigenous ancestry.

Honoured and respected: The revered role of Two-Spirit individuals

If we travel back through time, we could observe Two-Spirit individuals revered within Indigenous societies. Their unique ability to understand the masculine and feminine often led to them holding esteemed roles. It’s important that we acknowledge that some Indigenous communities also have traditional words in their language to recognize these individuals. These titles hold deep significance as they are embedded in cultural histories and embody knowledge and teachings passed down through generations. When visiting a community, it’s always best to ask caringly which term best describes their community members of a non-binary gender.

Facing adversity: The challenges Two-Spirit individuals endure today

When we discuss the Two-Spirit population, we must also acknowledge the many challenges currently faced within their community. Discrimination remains pervasive, with Two-Spirit individuals enduring a higher risk of assault, homicide and suicide compared to their non-Two-Spirit peers. Alongside these hardships, they confront unique barriers that shape their experiences in the world.

Navigating tradition: The journey of relearning cultural practices

A unique challenge within the Two-Spirit community is having to relearn cultural traditions and practices. While some Indigenous communities approach their belief systems in a non-gendered way, many maintain specific teachings to particular genders. These teachings might range from simple guidelines, like what to wear to a ceremony, to more intricate roles that define one’s place and responsibilities within the community. For individuals whose gender identity differs from the one assigned at birth, this journey often involves adopting a new set of protocols for ceremonies. As an individual re-learns the appropriate protocols, they can be left feeling outcast within their community, at no fault of their own.

Beyond the binary: Expanding perspectives on gender and sexuality

People who identify as Two Spirit may use the term to describe their gender while their sexual orientation can be straight, asexual, bisexual, gay, lesbian, or queer.. Alternatively, they might embrace the terminology for their sexual identity, while their gender aligns with cis, trans or intersex identities. Although this may appear complex through the lens of Western ideologies, it is important to recognize that Indigenous perspectives on gender and sexuality stem from systems of belief far older than colonial constructs. Two-spirited individuals have the ability to exist beyond Eurocentric understandings of gender and can exist in many roles that are traditionally assigned to one gender. However, Western influences have played a role in shaping how some Indigenous communities interpret these terms today.

For those outside Indigenous communities, fully grasping the meaning of what it means to be Two Spirit is no easy feat. Concepts of gender and sexual identity in Indigenous cultures go beyond binary definitions, offering perspectives that challenge Western norms. However, with open hearts and minds, we can listen to Two-Spirit individuals’ stories and honour the richness of their worldview.