Amikokaag

07/18/2022

“I always wanted to dance with the men, and I never was able to,” Phillips said. “That’s what stopped me, because I didn’t want to dance with the women.”

At the Echoes of A Proud Nation Pow Wow over the weekend, Phillips finally realized his dream when he stepped into the arena of the dance competition.

“During the grand entry, when they called out the men’s traditional category, I just walked out, and my first thought was, yeah, this is where I’m supposed to be,” Phillips said.

Courtesy Tanner Phillips Tanner Phillips wanted to dance since he was a little kid, but didn’t know why he felt uncomfortable participating until he became an adult. “I always wanted to dance with the men, and I never was able to,” Phillips said. “That’s what stopped me, because I didn’t...

07/16/2022

Two-Spirit Inclusive Pow Wow resource created by Anishinaabe grassdancer Melody McKiver.

Recently there's been a lot of discussion around how to make powwows more inclusive for Two-Spirit people. Swipe through for some simple suggestions?

07/16/2022

There's been a lot of recent discussion in the powwow community about what Two-Spirit inclusion can look like in the powwow circle. Here's a few helpful suggestions!

1. Include the Pride flag(s) as part of grand entry.

2. Don't assume a singer or dancer's sexuality (who they are or are not attracted to) or gender identity (who they are).

3. Use gender-neutral categories for all dance styles.

These can include: jingle, fancy shawl, traditional shawl, grass, fancy feather, chicken, woodlands, traditional bustle.

4. Work with the MCs to avoid gendered language, such as "junior/senior adults, teenagers, and children" rather than "men and boys".

5. Provide new powwow dancers and singers with all options when choosing a style.

This is especially important for parents to let their children make an informed decision.

6. Support, encourage, and mentor Two-Spirit singers and dancers into the powwow circle.

Be friendly and introduce yourself to new participants, make them feel welcome! Be generous with teachings around songs, dance steps, regalia sewing and care. Help new dancers into the circle with items for their outfit. Challenge your peers if you hear them making mean-spirited jokes.

7. "Switch dances" are when people change from their usual style for a special.

If a Two-Spirit dancer always dances a certain style, that's not a switch dance.

02/26/2022

You should be able to discuss your family status or planning and not experience homophobia and transphobia.

12/10/2021

Tikinagan Backs 2SLGBTQ+ Community, Conversion Therapy Bill

For Illa Meekis, the new legislation that is moving toward an unanimous adoption to ban the practice of conversion therapy for all ages across Canada, is bittersweet.

Read more... shorturl.at/dDFGO

11/18/2021

OutLoud North Bay, an LGBTQ community hub in the northern Ontario city, is developing "life-saving" garments known as binders, and helps youth in transition in other ways to help them fit in. Hundreds access the centre, which outgrew its original space after opening 18 months ago.

06/17/2021

🤩🌈🤩

Our first Pride at Night performer announcement is JEREMY DUTCHER (). From Tobique First Nation in New Brunswick, Jeremy Dutcher is a performer, composer, activist, and musicologist - these roles are all infused into his art and way of life. Jeremy's music transcends boundaries and he will be sharing a wonderful performance with us on Saturday June 26th!