Keynotes
Gregory Scofield
Biography
Title: You Can Always Count on an Anthropologist to Set You Straight, Crooked or Somewhere In between
Description:
This keynote address looks at the idea of "Two-Spiritedness" from a
Cree/Metis perspective, and from that of the author's personal and spiritual
connections/disconnections to the word two-spirit itself. Furthermore, the
author explores the contemporary labelling of gay, lesbian and transgendered Aboriginal people, delving into the politics of self and communal identification. This keynote address attempts, in a humorous and thoughtful way, to further contribute to the dialogue about personal, sexual and political forms of labelling in the Aboriginal community.
Oneida Indian Reservation, Wisconsin, United States
Biography
Title: Two Spirit Youth Kick Ass! Indigenous Activism and Organizing in Sexuality, Gender Fabulousness, and Beyond
Description:
"Two-Spirit". More than a word or a label, "Two Spirit" is a movement, a form of resistance, and is also in reclamation - because there are more understandings of Indigenous sexualities than just "Two Spirit" alone. This talk will discuss the legacy of Two Spirit activism and organizing, from the fabulousness of the Elders and Grandparents who have blazed the trail to the youth who are kicking ass now to keep it alive for the next 7 generations.
Chrystos Smith
Biography
Title: Springing from Earth
Description:
I speak from the heart rather than a pre-written speech. I will talk about my personal experience as a Two-Spirit, including histories of organizing such as GAI and the Gatherings. I also will speak about education First Nations to abandon Christian-induced homophobia and reinstating our traditional roles in our Nations. I will also speak to whatever issues that are current in your communities, if someone will be so kind as to tell me what they are.
Craig Womack
Biography
Title: Celebrating Our Gifts
Description:
The presentation challenges both on naming our strengths and challenging the homophobia in Indian country.
BSc, MHSc, MD Indigenous Family Medicine
Saddle Lake Cree Nation
Title: Two-spirits and Ayihkwe: Making our way back into the circle
Description:
This talk will focus on James' journey to discovering what it is to be a two-spirited nehiyaw (Cree) male and exploration of the term "ayihkwe." He will draw on aspects of traditional nehiyawak governance structures and teachings of Natural Law to challenge the current state of homophobia that exist as remnants of colonial oppression.