Two-Spirit Identity: Definition, Pride Flag, History
Understanding TwoâSpirit Identity: Definition, Pride Flag Meaning, and Historical Context
Before colonization, many Indigenous nations across Turtle Island (North America) recognized more than two genders. These identities were respected, honored, and often held important cultural, spiritual, or ceremonial roles. In 1990, during the third annual Intertribal Native American/First Nations Gay and Lesbian Conference in Winnipeg, the term TwoâSpirit was created as a unifying, panâIndigenous term for these diverse identities.
This article explores what TwoâSpirit means, the symbolism behind the TwoâSpirit Pride Flag, and the historical and modern individuals who embody this identity.
 What Does âTwoâSpiritâ Mean?
TwoâSpirit (often written as 2âSpirit or 2S) is a term used by some Indigenous people of Turtle Island to describe a sacred, cultural, and spiritual identity that encompasses:
- Gender identity Â
- Sexuality Â
- Spiritual role Â
- Community responsibilities Â
Key points:
- TwoâSpirit is exclusive to Indigenous people of North America. Â
- It is not interchangeable with LGBTQ+ terms like nonbinary, gay, or transgender. Â
- Each tribe has its own language, roles, and traditions for genderâdiverse people. Â
- TwoâSpirit people may identify with both a masculine and feminine spirit, or with a gender role specific to their nation. Â
- The term is panâIndigenous, but the identities it describes are tribeâspecific. Â
TwoâSpirit does not mean:
- Any nonâIndigenous person who is genderâdiverse Â
- A direct translation of ânonbinaryâ or âgenderfluidâ Â
- A universal Indigenous identity Â
In short:
TwoâSpirit is a culturally specific identity used by some Indigenous people to describe gender, sexuality, and spiritual roles that exist outside colonial binaries.
 The TwoâSpirit Pride Flag: Meaning & Symbolism
There are several versions of the TwoâSpirit Pride Flag, but the most widely recognized design includes:
- A rainbow background â representing the broader LGBTQ+ community Â
- A doubleâfeather symbol â representing masculine and feminine spirits Â
- A circle â symbolizing unity, wholeness, and the cycle of life Â
- Some 2S flags include a tipi or lodge â representing home, community, and Indigenous identity Â
Symbolism:
- The two feathers represent the duality or multiplicity of spirit. Â
- The circle reflects balance, interconnectedness, and Indigenous worldviews. Â
- The rainbow acknowledges solidarity with the global queer community while maintaining cultural specificity. Â
Some tribes and organizations use their own versions of TwoâSpirit flags, reflecting the diversity of Indigenous nations.
 Historical & Famous TwoâSpirit Individuals
TwoâSpirit people have existed for thousands of years. Many held respected roles such as:
- healers Â
- mediators Â
- matchmakers Â
- artists Â
- ceremonial leaders Â
- knowledge keepers Â
Because the term âTwoâSpiritâ is modern, we cannot retroactively apply it to historical figuresâbut we can acknowledge individuals whose roles align with what we now call TwoâSpirit identities.
 Historical TwoâSpirit Figures
1. Weâwha (Zuni Nation, 1849â1896)
A highly respected lhamana (a Zuni gender role), Weâwha was a cultural ambassador, weaver, and spiritual figure who met with U.S. President Grover Cleveland. They are one of the most documented Indigenous genderâdiverse individuals in history.
2. OshâTisch (Crow Nation, 1854â1929)
A bĂĄate (Crow gender role), OshâTisch was known as a skilled warrior and craftsperson. They fought in the Battle of the Rosebud and were deeply respected within their community.
3. Running Eagle (Piegan Blackfeet, 19th century)
A woman warrior who took on traditionally male roles and was honored with a vision quest typically reserved for men. While not labeled TwoâSpirit historically, their life resonates with genderâdiverse traditions.
4. Many unnamed TwoâSpirit people
Colonization, forced assimilation, and Christianization erased countless records of genderâdiverse Indigenous people. Many tribes are now working to reclaim and revive these traditions.
 Modern TwoâSpirit Leaders & Advocates
1. Harlan Pruden (Cree Nation)
A leading TwoâSpirit activist, educator, and coâfounder of the NorthEast TwoâSpirit Society.
2. Dr. James Makokis (Cree Nation)
A TwoâSpirit physician and advocate for Indigenous health and gender diversity, known for winning The Amazing Race Canada with his husband.
3. Geo Neptune (Passamaquoddy Nation)
A TwoâSpirit artist, educator, and activist known for their basket weaving and cultural advocacy.
4. Arielle Twist (Cree/MĂ©tis)
A TwoâSpirit poet and writer whose work explores gender, sexuality, and Indigenous identity.
These individuals help bring visibility, pride, and cultural reclamation to TwoâSpirit communities.
 Why TwoâSpirit Visibility Matters
TwoâSpirit identity is not just about gender or sexualityâit is about culture, survival, and reclamation. Visibility:
- Counters colonial erasure Â
- Revives traditional gender roles Â
- Strengthens Indigenous communities Â
- Educates nonâIndigenous people about cultural specificity Â
- Honors the resilience of TwoâSpirit people across generations Â
TwoâSpirit people deserve recognition, respect, and celebration.
 Final Thoughts
TwoâSpirit identity is a sacred, culturally rooted expression of gender and sexuality within Indigenous nations. The TwoâSpirit Pride Flag honors this identity, while history shows that genderâdiverse Indigenous people have always existedâeven if the terminology is new. Whether expressed today or centuries ago, TwoâSpirit identity reflects humanityâs deep capacity for diversity, spirituality, and connection.