Two Spirits

Two Spirits

In this thought-provoking episode of 'Native As I Can Be', Geno Ray sits down with his cousin, Garrick Jackson, a licensed professional social worker and former tribal council member. Together, they dive into the rich history and significance of Two Spirit people within Native American culture. Their conversation offers a blend of personal anecdotes and broader cultural insights, making it both enlightening and deeply personal. The episode doesn't shy away from complex topics.

One such discussion centers on Adree Edmo's landmark case against the State of Idaho/Department of Corrections, which successfully paved the way for her gender reassignment surgery. This segment highlights the ongoing struggle for acceptance and rights within both Native and broader communities. Adding a dash of color and flair, Garrick shares his experiences with Portland’s iconic drag queen, Darcelle XV, and her annual drag queen competition.

These stories not only celebrate cultural richness but also emphasize the importance of embracing diversity in all its forms. Geno and Garrick challenge listeners to question their assumptions and seek deeper understanding. As Geno aptly puts it, 'The other way to look at this...is to just start asking questions and find out if there's more answers than just yay or nay on certain things, particularly from a Native perspective, about issues affecting other Natives'.

This episode is a compelling call to embrace curiosity and openness, offering a fresh perspective on the intersections of identity, culture, and acceptance.