2S is for Two-Spirit!

Here at Queer Kid Stuff, we love talking about our LGBTs! There are lots of different versions of the LGBT acronym. Maybe you’ve seen it written as “LGBT,” or “LGBTQ+,” or even “LGBTQIA2S?” But what does the “2S” stand for?

Today, we’re exploring a topic that’s still sitting on our list of unmade QKS episodes that we hope we’ll get to one day 😉 Two-Spirit identity! It is vital to include two-spirit indigenous identity in our queer and gender-affirming parenting and educational practices so we’re giving you this quick explainer to help you start the conversation. This information can be valuable for parents and kids who are curious about gender identity and want to learn more about the rich tapestry of human experiences.

For a longer and more in depth discussion, you can listen to our episode of the Rainbow Parenting podcast with two-spirit arts educator Emi Aguilar (@indigenizingartsed).

Defining Two-Spirit

The term "Two-Spirit" originated from an Ojibwe word and was coined in the 1990s to provide a pan-Indigenous term for individuals embodying both masculine and feminine energies. Unlike Western notions of queer and trans identities, Two-Spirit is a distinct concept with specific roles and responsibilities within Indigenous communities.

Cultural Diversity

It's important to recognize the diversity within Indigenous cultures and languages. Two-Spirit identity varies across tribes and nations, with each having its own culturally specific terminology. For instance, in Hawaii, the term is "Māhū," while in India, it's "Hijra." This diversity emphasizes the need to respect and understand the unique perspectives of each Indigenous community.

Exclusive to Indigenous People

Two-Spirit is an identity exclusively for Indigenous people and should not be used by those outside the Native community. There are numerous terms available to non-Native individuals. Respecting Two-Spirit as an exclusively indigenous term emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and recognizes the uniqueness of Indigenous experiences.

Roles and Responsibilities

Two-Spirit individuals often have specific roles and responsibilities within their communities. These roles can range from working with children as storykeepers to holding ceremonial positions. The diversity of roles reflects the cultural richness and uniqueness of each tribe or nation.

Sacred and Special Roles

Across many Indigenous cultures, Two-Spirit individuals are regarded as sacred and hold a special role within their communities. Unlike the stigmatization often experienced by queer and trans individuals in Western societies, Two-Spirit people have historically been seen as integral to maintaining balance within their cultures.

Understanding Two-Spirit identity is an essential step toward fostering inclusivity and embracing the diversity of gender experiences. For parents and kids exploring gender identity, this knowledge opens up conversations about different cultural perspectives and the importance of respecting and celebrating unique identities. As we continue to learn and grow, let's embrace the rich tapestry of human experiences and build a more inclusive world for everyone.