Origins of the Two-Spirit Identity

Gendered language and terms can be complex, especially as more terms are created to accurately express the feelings and identities of those who belong to the LGBTQ+ community. If you’ve heard of the Two-Spirit identity in the LGBTQ+ community, you might be scratching your head wondering what it is. Don’t worry if you feel this way. You’re not alone! In this blog, we’ll fill you in on the Two-Spirit meaning as well as its origins.

What is the Two-Spirit meaning?

“Two-Spirit” refers to a person who identifies as someone who has both a masculine and a feminine spirit. This is sometimes also referred to as a third gender. The term “Two-Spirit” is used in indigenous Native American and First Nations cultures, some Aboriginal cultures, and other indigenous cultures. Essentially, people who are Two-Spirit identify with masculinity and femininity.

What are the origins of the Two-Spirit identity?

To fully understand the Two-Spirit meaning, it’s also helpful to know where it comes from. The idea of Two-Spirit refers to ancient indigenous teachings of the First Nations. The term originated in Winnipeg, Canada in 1990 during the third annual intertribal Native American/First Nations gay and lesbian conference. It came from the Ojibwa words niizh manitoag (two-spirits) and leaders initially chose it to distance Native/First Nations people from non-Natives as well as from the words "berdache" and "gay."

According to the First Nations, the Two-Spirit meaning was a term used to describe third gender people who were often visionaries, healers, and medicine people of the indigenous communities. They were well-respected and viewed as essential components of their ancient culture and societies. There are also old descriptions of Two-Spirit people having strong mystical powers.

Today, Two-Spirit is a term that also encompasses a broad range of identities and cultures, and pronouns that people use to identify themselves. Not all cultures or tribes accept this term, though. So, although some indigenous people prefer to use the term Two-Spirit, others do not. Click here to know two spirit meaning.

Two-Spirit vs. Non-Binary

Generally, the Two-Spirit identity is considered a form of non-binary identity. However, the term “Two-Spirit” is more accurate and culturally sensitive for many indigenous people and cultures. On the contrary, non-indigenous people primarily use the term non-binary to refer to this identity. When you engage with someone who identifies as non-binary or Two-Spirit, it’s best not to assume anything. Instead, ask the person how they’d like you to address them.

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