We are Part of a Tradition: A Guide on Two-Spirited People for First Nations Communities

Instructional manual on how to give culturally-sensitive workshops on two-spirited people (Aboriginal people who are transgender, gay, lesbian, bisexual). The manual begins with definitions of the terms heterosexism, homophobia, lesbophobia, biphobia, heterosexual privilege. It then gives a summary of lesbian and gay rights, legislation, and precedent-setting court cases at the federal level and in each provincial / territorial jurisdiction of Canada. The bulk of the manual contains information on two-spirited people in terms of traditional teachings, history and spirituality, and information and analysis of the interactions between homophobia / prejudice and AIDS. The unique issues facing two-spirited women, men, and youth are discussed. The manual proposes a curriculum to be used to teach adults about two-spirited people. This includes information on cultural concepts to be taught; student activities and discussion; and an anti-homophobia work plan model to be used by Aboriginal communities. The manual concludes with a list of reading references, resources and organizations, and a glossary of terms.