On being two-spirited in Eeyou Istchee

Larivee, Patrice (2019) On being two-spirited in Eeyou Istchee. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Two-Spirited people were traditionally considered gifted individuals among the First Nations of Canada and held respectful positions within their society. Colonization and the introduction of religious doctrines caused a paradigm shift of their traditional beliefs, especially in regard to sexual orientation and gender identity. Little is known about the Two-Spirited people still living in reservations and the challenges they face in their life journey. This phenomenological study explored the lived experience of being a Two- Spirited person in the actual Cree communities of James Bay, Quebec. Giorgi’s (1985) method was used to identify significant themes arising from the collected narratives of ten participants. Data analysis revealed a migratory path divided in four themes: (1) I Am Different, (2) It Was War, (3) I Had to Run Away, and (4) I Wanted to Go Home. The findings can inform health care service providers and program developers on the unique challenges facing Two-Spirited individuals in order to adapt their professional practice and propose interventions that are culturally congruent.

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