Two-Spirit Culture: Roles, Responsibilities, and Challenges
Workshop Description
This presentation will focus on current and historical perspectives regarding the development and usage of the term “two spirit.” Gender differences and appropriate gender behaviors are crucial to social functioning in western society, but transgender individuals are often viewed differently and harassed. They experience greater discrimination due to pre-existing social programming that will be discussed, along with available resources.
Conference Track
Professional
Primary Contact
Workshop Presenters
Michelle Enfield
Presenter Bio
Michelle Enfield, a Diné of the Red Running into the Water people Clan (Tachii’nii), is originally from Lukachukai, Arizona, but now resides in Los Angeles, California. She has trained in fine arts, and now studies psychology and business at Antioch University LA. She has first-hand experience working with homeless youth, as an HIV test counselor, and specifically with the Native American population providing HIV education, support, and referrals. She is a member of the Transgender Service Provider Network (TSPN) and co-chair of the Underrepresented Cultural Communities with the LA Department of Mental Health.