Indigenous 2SLGBTQ+ Embrace Pride through Rich Culture, Tradition, and Community

Throughout June, cities and communities across the country honored the LGBTQ+ community with Pride celebrations. Major festivities took place in large cities like New York and Los Angeles, often highlighting the Western perspective on Pride.

For many in the United States, Pride began in 1969 with the Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. This six-day series of events marked a fundamental change for LGBTQ+ individuals.

However, for many Indigenous two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning plus people, Pride predates Stonewall. Before colonization disrupted Indigenous cultures and traditions, communities revered their 2SLGBTQ+ members.

The Navajo, for instance, historically recognized more than two genders. The nádleehi are individuals who embody both male and female characteristics, playing significant roles in Navajo society as mediators and holders of sacred knowledge.

Mattee Jim, a Diné trans advocate from Tse’na’oshi’jiin on the Navajo Nation in New Mexico, has advocated for the 2SLGBTQ+ community for over 25 years. Now, she supervises HIV Prevention Programs for First Nations Community HealthSource in Albuquerque.

Jim recalls being influenced by Western perceptions of Pride—rainbow flags, large events, and gay literature. However, as she matured, she reconnected with her Diné identity and culture.

“We do have a rainbow,” Jim stated, referring to náátsʼíílid, the Navajo word for rainbow, symbolizing a communication gateway between the Holy people and the Diné. For Jim, traditional Navajo values can align with modern Pride.

The Navajo Nation recently celebrated its Pride event. Pride flags lined the streets leading to the Window Rock Tribal Park and Veterans Memorial, creating a vibrant scene despite the cloudy skies.

“It’s more than a rainbow flag,” said Alray Nelson, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Navajo Nation Pride. He emphasized that in Diné culture, all human beings are considered sacred, which includes 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.

This year, almost 2,000 people gathered in Window Rock to celebrate. The theme for 2024, Ayóó Ánóshní, translates to “love is sacred” in Navajo and signifies the fundamental nature of love for Indigenous 2SLGBTQ+ people.

San Carlos Apache Drag Performer Leslie D. Lewinsky has been part of Navajo Nation Pride’s organizational efforts and performances. For Lewinsky, such events offer hope to younger generations and symbolize acceptance within their communities.

Despite the successes, challenges remain. Lewinsky has struggled to host similar events on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Authorities suggested inappropriate venues, underlining ongoing prejudice.

“It gives me so much hope,” Lewinsky said, expressing a desire to inspire Indigenous youth to feel accepted and celebrated within their communities.

Nelson acknowledged the historical efforts of Indigenous 2SLGBTQ+ people, who faced significant hardship and persecution. Their bravery laid the groundwork for today’s openly celebrated Pride events.

Virgil Smith from Tohatchi, New Mexico, recollected earlier, discreet gatherings involving drag shows in secluded areas. Now, Navajo Nation Pride events are openly held, indicating significant societal progress.

“We beam with pride in so many different ways,” Jim concluded, reflecting on the transformative journey from fear to open celebration.

Similar strides are being made across other Indigenous communities. In Arizona, tribes such as the Tohono O’odham Nation and the Hualapai Tribe have also embraced Pride events. The Tohono O’odham Nation, notably, signed a proclamation honoring June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month.

Angel Manuel, a transgender Tohono O’odham woman, highlighted the significance of local Pride events. They provide young people with visible support, fostering a sense of belonging within their communities.

Despite the progress, much work remains. Among the 22 federally recognized tribes in Arizona, only a few have embraced officially recognized Pride events. Nelson hopes for broader acceptance and recognition of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals within these communities.

“There are little kids out there in your nation that are listening,” Nelson said, emphasizing the importance of community acceptance for younger generations.

While the journey has not been smooth, Navajo Nation Pride has received increasing support from tribal leaders and community members. Nelson urged other tribes to prioritize their communities over seeking approval from elected officials.

“Indigenous 2SLGBTQ+ people have every right to be in their communities,” he affirmed, advocating for continued visibility and acceptance.