Letter to the Editor: 2SLGBTQIA+

I enjoyed reading the Pulse’s coverage of Pride Month 2021. However, with the long history of indigenous peoples in the state of Wisconsin and Door County, it was disappointing to see that Two-Spirit was not included in the coverage.

Such individuals are found in many tribes and are considered neither male nor female. They have specialized work roles, with Two-Spirit males working in traditional arts such as basket weaving, pottery making and healing; and Two-Spirit females engaging in hunting and, at one time, warfare, sometimes becoming tribal chiefs. 

Many tribes believe Two-Spirit individuals are a result of supernatural intervention. Because indigenous peoples in America have been marginalized for much of American history, it is recommended to place Two-Spirit first in the acronym: 2SLGBTQIA+.

Jeff Arch

Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin