First Nations in Canada unique histories and cultures, gender equality and diversity
“were generally accepted as cultural norms prior to European contact; gender roles for women, men, Two- Spirit, and other gender-diverse individuals were often distinct but complementary and egalitarian. With colonization, the widespread imposition of European cultural and religious patriarchal practices undermined these traditional identities and roles, introducing gender inequities and reinforcing a gender binary of male and female” (The First Nations Information Governance Centre Research Series, 2021).
Keeping this in mind, it is important to unlearn and relearn about these identities when walking alongside Indigenous communities.
What Does Two-Spirit Mean?
Native Women's Association of Canada
This PDF created by the Native Women's Association of Canada, funded by Indigenous Services Canada, includes an excellent introductory glossary of Sex and Gender Inclusive Terminology, and a factsheet & practical tips guide for providing Trauma-Informed care.
FNIGC Research Series
FNIGC Research Series includes this report Social and Economic Well-Being: A First Nations Gender-Balanced Analysis (2021), focused on issues facing First Nations reserve and Northern communities which leverage data from the FNIGC’s national survey initiatives
Native Youth Sexual Health Network, a grassroots network of indigenous youth and inter-generational relatives, has authored several youth-oriented sexual health toolkits.
