A survey conducted by the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) has found a large portion of the Nation’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community still feel excluded from the community, and struggle to know where to find help or guidance on gender and sexuality related issues.
Between March and June last year, the Nation conducted a survey and five community engagement sessions to gain better understanding of the unique experiences and challenges of its 2SLGBTQIA+ members.
Interviewing 205 Squamish members who identified as two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex or asexual, the study delved into areas such as the level of community support and the varied experiences among different age groups.
It found more than 25 per cent of those involved were yearning for social support but weren’t aware of how to access it, while 35 percent of those who identified as 2SLGTBQIA+ accessed support from outside the Nation.
Researchers also found that many 2SLGTBQIA+ Squamish people still felt left out of group and community cultural events, with 10 per cent feeling excluded most of the time, and 25 percent feeling excluded some of the time. Among those who are not fully 'out' – who haven’t yet disclosed their sexual orientation or gender identity to friends or family – 37 per cent avoid events altogether.
The survey found that the older generation approached being ‘out’ about their own identity or sexuality with more vigour than the younger, with all 2SLGTBQIA+ Elders describing themselves as "fully out," and 21 per cent of adults describing themselves as “somewhat out.” Meanwhile, 19 per cent of youth said they choose to neither share nor hide their sexual orientation or gender identity.
One of the largest takeaways to come from the survey is that education is paramount, with misinformation and confusion rife. The biggest myths reported among members interviewed were of 2SLGTBQIA+ being a choice and 2SLGTBQIA+ members being “sinful” or “unnatural," while others believed young children should not be made aware of 2SLGTBQIA+ members.
Most of the questions fielded by researchers were on the definitions of certain terms or concepts, how best to interact with and support friends and loved ones – most notably those going through a transition – and how to correctly address harmful words and acts.
In the months since the survey was conducted, the Nation has recommended initiatives that will help support its 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The Nation’s main priority is ensuring all staff are provided with education sessions, and members have sessions and courses available to them. The courses would delve into 2SLGTBQIA+ history, language and allyship and would outline how to carry out respectful interactions.
As a nod to its dedication in furthering support for its 2SLGTBQIA+ members, the Nation hosted its Nch’ú7mut (One Love) Blanketing Ceremony in March this year. According to the Nation, the ceremony, the first since 2017, was well attended by the community.
Mina Kerr-Lazenby is the North Shore News’ Indigenous and civic affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
