Lecture Notes: Ma-Nee Chacaby on Being Two-Spirit

Introduction

• Speaker: Ma-Nee Chacaby
• Cultural Background: Anishnaabe

Early Life and Identity

• Childhood: Realized identity as a two-spirit person at the age of four.
  • Grandma's prediction of a hard life due to being two-spirit.
• Clothing and Gender Identity: Discomfort with wearing girls' clothes; felt different from peers.

Understanding Two-Spirit Identity

• Age of Realization: Around ten, discovered attraction towards girls.
• Cultural Learning: At sixteen, inquired about the term "two-spirit" from grandmother.
  • Grandmother's Advice: Explore different churches; God is within.
  • Importance of listening to heart, mind, and gut.

Historical and Cultural Context

• Cultural Acceptance: Two-spirit people traditionally respected within First Nations.
  • Roles: Keeper of village fire, learning from elders, healers, visionaries, bringing spiritual messages.
  • Valued Members: Seen as special people with gifts, not mocked but appreciated.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Learning and Teaching: Expected to learn and fulfill various community roles.
• Caretakers: Took care of orphaned children.

Personal Empowerment

• Message to Two-Spirit Individuals:
  • Prioritize self-care and care for others.
  • Embrace identity without shame.
  • Confidence in identity despite societal perceptions.

Conclusion

• Pride in Identity: Firm stance on being proud as a two-spirit person.
  • Dismisses others' negative opinions; no monetary value can alter identity.