Two Spirit Powwow in SOMArts cultural center, Feb. 1 Photo Diana K. Arreola

Over 500 people gathered to dance and pray in celebration of the 3rd Annual Two-Spirit Powwow.

“I respect it and see honor in it” Said Cerise Palmanteer, a dancer and member of the Yakima Tribe in Colville “My uncle is Two-Spirit so I think of him when I dance.”

Two- Spirit people are gender variant members of the Native American community. The term was first used in 1990 during a queer native gathering in Winnipeg.

Held on Feb. 1 at the SOMArts cultural center, the event itself was put on in honor of Two-Spirit people to give them a space for cultural and artistic expression.

“We want to create something that’s welcoming for everybody,” said J Miko Thomas, a member of the Chickasaw Tribe and a leader in the Powwow committee. “No matter what you are on the gender spectrum we welcome everyone to come out and have a good time with us.”

Dancers from different tribes joined together in solidarity for inter-tribal social dancing. This included Tiny Tots, children that came together in dance and song, which is sponsored by BAAITS Drum.

During the coming out special, dancers wearing their full regalia for the first time danced and joined the Powwow circle.
Many different types of garments were worn. Some dancers wore buckskin with fringes to symbolize water and women’s power. Others wore red shawls in honor of domestic violence survivors and victims.

Throughout the event, a market was set up in the back of the venue for merchants to sell hand made clothing and other goods to people at the event.

“It’s our way as Two-Spirit people of contributing back to the community” said J Miko Thomas “it’s a traditional role that Two-Spirit people used to have.”

The event was organized by the Bay Area American Indian Two-Spirits (BAAITS). BAAITS is a community-based volunteer organization that offers cultural activities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Native Americans and allies.