Etuaptmumk / Two-Eyed Seeing (E/TES) forms the foundation for researching Two-Spirit identity in relation to gender, sexuality, and sex. This paper explores how positive social identity is fostered to support Etuijijaqmijuinu’k, the term for Two-Spirit in Mi’kmaw, through language and culture, using Etuaptmumk. The research highlights the importance of integrating cultural, social, and ceremonial activities to enhance mental health and well-being among Two-Spirit individuals in Atlantic Canada, including the identification of effective strategies for mental health support. One of the study’s outcomes is the creation of diagrams illustrating male and female sexual anatomies in L’nui’su’ti (Mi’kmaw language), which have not been published before. The purpose of this study is to decolonise the way we examine Two-Spirit gender, sexuality, and sex. The study confirms the use of Etuaptmumk/Two-Eyed Seeing as a foundation in decolonising Two-Spirit research. The diagrams of sexual anatomy can be reintroduced into curriculum development and sexual health education. The study is a community-led initiative by a Two-Spirit individual for the Two-Spirit community, addressing needs previously identified by the Two-Spirit people in Mi’kma’ki (Atlantic Canada).

Authors:
John R. Sylliboy, McGill University, Canada

About the Presenter(s)
J. Sylliboy is the Executive Director of the Wabanaki Two-Spirit Alliance and Indigenous Research Lead at the IWK Health Centre. My research addresses Indigenous perspectives on gender and sexuality about Two-Spirit identity using Two-Eyed Seeing.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-r-sylliboy-0b364516

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

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