🏳️⚧️ Many traditional Native American cultures accepted and revered individuals who are today referred to as "Two-Spirit," which encompasses a variety of gender identities and sexual orientations. These individuals often held respected roles as healers, spiritual leaders, and ceremonial figures. However, the acceptance and the views on these roles varied among different tribes, and the impact of European colonization, forced assimilation, and Christian influence has led to negative views on homosexuality in many communities today.
Traditional acceptance and roles
• "Two-Spirit" identity: Many tribes recognized individuals with both masculine and feminine spirits, referred to by different names such as mexoga (Omaha), winkte (Lakota), and nadleehe (Navajo).
• Spiritual and ceremonial roles: Two-Spirit people were often seen as having a special spiritual connection and held important positions as healers, shamans, and ceremonial leaders. #Trans #LGBTQ #Transgender #TwoSpirit