Two-Spirit Terminology

NaWalka Geeshy Meegwun and Aaron Bowerman, members of the Anishinabek Nation’s Two-Spirit, Two-Heart, Indigenous Queer Nation Advisory Council, talk about reclaiming Two-Spirit terminology that is embedded in Anishinaabe language and ceremony. Bemaadizijig Ganoonindwaa has collaborated with the Anishinabek Nation’s Two-Spirit, Two-Heart, Indigenous Queer Nation Advisory Council to create a series of four podcasts exploring Two-Spirit themed topics: Two-Spirit Terminology; Two-Spirit Histories, Roles and Responsibilities; Homophobia; and Health. NaWalka Geeshy Meegwun (Longfeather), also known as Lyndon George, is a member of the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation and lives in Hamilton. NaWalka Geeshy Meegwun identifies as Anishinaabe Ojokwe, one of many terms used by the Two-Spirit community.  NaWalka Geeshy Meegwun works in the justice field and has worked with Indigenous people all of their life, both on and off-reserve.

Aaron Bowerman was born and raised in Sheguiandah First Nation on Manitoulin Island. Aaron identifies as an Anishinaabe Two-Spirit man. Aaron has worked in the Greater Toronto Area for over 10 years supporting various communities as a front-line harm reduction worker.  Aaron is currently employed with the City of Toronto as an Indigenous Research Associate. Links and Resources: For more information about the Anishinabek Nation’s Anishinabek Nation’s Two-Spirit, Two-Heart, Indigenous Queer Nation Advisory Council, contact: Barb Naveau,  Special Projects Coordinator.

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This podcast is produced by the Communications Department at the Anishinabek Nation. 

Music: “Brothers” by Wolf Saga and Chippewa Travellers, and "Where the Road Meets the Sky", licensed by Nagamo Publishing. Click here to download the transcript.