Two spirit people

Life can be extremely difficult for gay and lesbian people living in Aboriginal communities. In centuries past, the two-spirited (as they were known) were highly regarded in society for their insight into the world of men and women, and for possessing spiritual gifts. Two-spirited people became ostracized and their spiritual gifts disregarded with colonization and the influence of Christian attitudes. Today, reserves are rampant with homophobia. According to Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, 70 percent of the Aboriginal teen suicides on reserves today are by two-spirited youth. The Sharing Circle explores the issues faced by Aboriginal gays, lesbians, and bisexuals and illustrates the extraordinary efforts being made by those trying to end this discrimination.