Connect & Get Involved Groups & Societies Montana Two Spirit Society
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The Montana Two Spirit Society formed in 1996 through a joint effort by Pride, Inc. (Montana’s LGBT advocacy organization) and the Montana Gay Men’s Task Force to conduct an annual Two Spirit gathering. Over the years, the gathering has grown from a handful of participants to nearly 100 attendees from not only Montana, but surrounding states as well. Tribes from all over the west are represented at the Gathering.

The mission of the Montana Two Spirit Society is to advocate and educate the Montana LGBTI community and general community about Two-Spirit issues, histories, and traditions. They promote health, wellness and spiritual well being by sharing their traditions with one another, healing past wounds, and learning new ways to combat disease. They also outreach and build alliances and coalitions with other community based organizations to increase visibility of the Two-Spirit and Native LGBTI community and restore the traditions.

Over the years, the Montana Two Spirit Society has brought more awareness about Two Spirit and Native LGBT issues by:

  • Marching at LGBT Pride parades.
  • Hosting the International Two Spirit Gathering
  • Conducting workshops and presentations at conferences, summits, and retreats.
  • Attending similar Two Spirit gatherings around the country.
  • Networking with other Two Spirit societies and Native LGBT groups.
  • Collaborating with LGBT organizations such as Western MT Gay & Lesbian Community Center, Pride Network, and Pride Foundation.
MTSS Future

They continue to work towards becoming a strong, viable and independent organization by securing a federal 501(c)3 (nonprofit) status and opening up an office. They also hope to:

  • Strengthen their collaborative efforts by working with the Pride Foundation on the Racial Equity Initiative to increase capacity building among people of color organizations.
  • Conduct board meetings and planning group meetings for the annual Montana Two Spirit Gathering.
  • Members will attend the International Two Spirit Gathering and serve on the planning committee for the 2009 International Gathering to be held in Denver, CO.
  • Promote the Montana Two-Spirit Society by developing a website.
Contact Information

Website: http://mttwospirit.org

Contact Persons:
Steven Barrios (Long Time Holy Rain)
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

David Herrea (White Eagle tail Feathers)
406-829-8075

Mailing Address:
Montana Two Spirit Society
P.O. Box 7514
Missoula, MT 59807-7514

 
 

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