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For the second year in a row, Saugeen First Nation hoisted the Pride flag to acknowledge acceptance in their community.

Hub Staff

The pride flag rose to its full glory for the second year outside the Saugeen First Nation administration building on Wednesday, June 12. Organizer Joseph Wesley prepared burgers, entertained guests, laid out props and decorations, and did what he could to avoid giving a speech.

A modest, yet hopeful gathering attended the event. Wesley was encouraged by the turnout and said acceptance is growing. The first year they were testing the waters, this year they turned it up a notch with the barbecue and decorations, music, colourful attire and a vibrant rainbow cake.

According to the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity (CCGSD), the term Two Spirited or Ogokwe (Ojibwe) was conceived in the 1990s at the Intertribal Native American/First Nations Gay and Lesbian Conference in Winnipeg to restore the historical stature of Indigenous people who possess within them multiple gender spirits. Prior to colonization, Two Spirited individuals were revered in their communities and garnered respect for their unique gifts. This concept confused the European settlers who forced these traditions into suppression.

The CCGSD states that the term Two Spirited can take on a different meaning for different individuals but provides an opportunity for Indigenous people to open a dialogue about their gender and sexual identities.

Karen Houle, a Two Spirit Indigenous Mentor from M'Wikwedong Indigenous Cultural Resource Centre, travelled from Owen Sound to Saugeen First Nation for the June 12 event. “People are hurting,” said Houle. “When a community like this puts a [Pride] flag up, it’s a big deal to some people."

Houle described the difficulties suffered by Two Spirited Indigenous people who are not only dealing with discrimination due to their gender or sexual identities but racism as well. “You can either accept your Native identity or you can accept your LGBT identity,” said Houle.

Wesley assisted one of the young community members in raising the Pride flag and, urged by those in attendance, gave a short but pertinent speech. “We want everyone to know that we support everybody, everybody is included and welcomed," Wesley said.

Joseph

Pride event organizer Joseph Wesley (centre) with mother/daughter Pride supporters Janice (left) and Kyla Roote (right).

sfn pride flag

Joseph Wesley (left) assisted a Saugeen First Nation youth in raising the Pride flag June 12.

barbecue

The bold and colourful cake sat waiting for tasters on a Pride themed table with necklaces, stickers and tattoos on offer.

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