2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusivity

The CBHSSJB proudly celebrates equity, diversity and inclusion, expressing unwavering support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Eeyou Istchee, all around the world and year-round.

We believe in promoting health and wellness for all and are committed to continuously educating ourselves to provide better services to all members of our communities.

Two-Spirit Identity

Two-Spirit (2S) is a present-day term for Indigenous people who identify as having both a feminine and a masculine spirit. It is used by Indigenous people to describe their cultural, spiritual, gender, and sexual identity. A person who is Two-Spirit may identify as LGBTQIA+, and in fact, many do.

The Cree translation for a two-spirit person is “Nishoudehee” or “a person with two hearts”.

Two-spirit was coined in the 90’s at the third annual First Nations Gay and Lesbian Conference, in Winnipeg.

• It is an umbrella term and differs nation to nation.
• Two-Spirit is a gender identity but has been also used to describe sexuality as well.
• Two-Spirit people have existed long before contact with the European colonizers. Colonialism took away a lot of our teaching behind these sacred peoples and pushed gender norms our people were not accustomed to. Pre-contact, we were very accepting peoples.

How can we support someone who “comes out”?

It takes strength and courage for someone to come out. It is a personal choice if someone decides to “come out” and share with others they identify. 

• If a friend, family member, or loved one comes out, it is important to be respectful and non-judgmental and let the person know you love them no matter what. 
• Rule of thumb: If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything. Wait it out. Choose your words carefully and let the person know that you are still processing the information.
• Listen attentively to what the person shares with you. Be empathetic. 
• Trust the person. Don’t make assumptions or invalidate their experience. 
• If someone shares this information about their identity with you, it can mean that they view you as a trustworthy person. Sharing is a personal choice, so it is important to respect confidentiality and not disclose one’s identity to others without permission. 
• Ask them how you can best support them and respect their wishes. 
• These discussions can sometimes occur in very difficult circumstances. If you are concerned about a person’s well-being or safety, you can provide additional support and refer them to appropriate services or resources with their consent.  Crisis resources are available :  Mental Health 
• If you are concerned about their well-being or safety, you can provide additional support and refer them to appropriate services or resources.