Services

Aboriginal people are Canada's fastest growing population and Aboriginal youth will become significant contributors to the Canadian workforce and economy. Two-Spirit people will be among this dynamic generation and we have the right to fully participate in its successes. To strengthen the inclusion of Two-Spirit people, the TSPM offers a speakers bureau and a team of workshop facilitators to provide awareness and training sessions (1.5 - 3 hours). Please contact us if your organization or conference is interested in booking an awareness/training session or a speaker.

Workshops:

Understanding Two-Spirit People in the Aboriginal Community

An overview of the historic and contemporary experiences of indigenous gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. The history of how the term "Two-Spirit People" was coined and its relevance to de-colonization movements today.

An Update on HIV/AIDS Among Aboriginal People in Canada

This presentation explores the most recent HIV/AIDS statistics and the affected Aboriginal populations. An overview of research projects and provincial and national strategies is also provided.

Aboriginal Awareness and Demonstrative Culture

An overview of the historic and contemporary experiences of First Nation, Metis and Inuit peoples. Definitions and perspectives about cultural identity and cultural safety is included. This presentation provides information about Aboriginal healing models and teachings.

Anti-Racism and Human Rights Training

This session explores concepts of perceived race and the effects of racism in Canada. It reviews current federal and provincial human rights and anti-discrimination legislation and effective anti-racism education and strategies.

Two-Spirit Workshop (Feb. 2011): This workshop for the staff at the Nelson House Medicine Lodge was excellent! The facilitators were well organized, well prepared, and had engaging and informative resources. We all came away better educated about the historical and contemporary aboriginal views of sexual identity, and more self aware about our own thoughts and biases. I do recommend this workshop highly so that communities and organizations better understand Two-Spirit people in the aboriginal community and the role colonization has played in the process.

Sandra Hayes-Gardiner B.A. M.S.W. R.S.W. Mental Health Consultant and Therapist

Consultation

Government programs, non-profit organizations, corporations, and First Nation and Metis communities have clients, consumers and constituents who are Two-Spirited. Therefore, suicide prevention initiatives, health and addictions treatment services, housing programs, sexual health awareness training, and correctional services must meet human rights and cultural safety standards to support the inclusion of Two-Spirit people. Consultants allied with the TSPM are available to advise on policy and program design and implementation, and staff awareness and training.

Traditional Regalia and Textile Art

Two-Spirit people are excellent artists and crafts people in the areas of beading, drum-making, pow-wow regalia (jingle dresses, shawls, moccasins), carving, sculpture and pottery. Please contact us if you would like to connect with one of our talented artists.