W.8.6

2 Spirit 4 Ever © Andie Martin (Wailaki)

Two Spirit: Understanding and Celebrating Identities

Connecting—Anchor Standard 11, 1.VA:RE7.1, 5.VA:RE7.1, 6.VA:RE7.1, 8.VA:RE7.1, W.8.2, W.8.4, W.8.6, W.8.7, W.8.8, RI.8.1, RI.8.2, RI.8.4, RI.8.6, SL.8.2, WL.CL2.N: Cultural Products, Practices, and Perspectives, WL.CL4.A: Intercultural Influences, 7-8.1.8.G, 7-8.2.2.G, 7-8.4.4.G

This four-lesson unit offers middle school students an opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of Two-Spirit identities within Indigenous communities. Students will begin by understanding the distinctions between gender, sex, and sexuality, setting the foundation for a deeper exploration of Two-Spirit identities. Lessons describe the history of Two-Spirit people, highlighting their roles and traditions within Native American and Indigenous cultures, and differentiating these identities from Western LGBTQIA+ concepts. Lessons emphasize the power of visual art in expressing identity. Students will analyze artwork created by Two-Spirit artists, exploring how art serves as a medium for cultural expression, identity affirmation, creating community and belonging. Throughout the unit, students will engage in discussions and activities that foster empathy, cultural awareness, and respect for diverse identities. A key focus of the unit is the Wiyot Tribe's advocacy for Two-Spirit individuals, exemplified through their collaboration with Humboldt County Supervisors to create a Two-Spirit Proclamation. Students will analyze this proclamation, identifying its key elements and reflecting on its significance in raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and combating discrimination. Students will gain insight into the importance of advocacy and community involvement in effecting positive social change. They will have the opportunity to see themselves as advocates and be empowered to draft a Two-Spirit Proclamation of their own. By the end of the unit, students will have a comprehensive understanding of Two-Spirit identities and the importance of recognizing and celebrating these identities within both Indigenous communities and broader society.

Mien refugees in northern Thailand refugee camps during 1980-1983 taken by Erica Hagen.

Ethnic Diversity of Laos

HSS 6.6, RI.7.1, W.8.6, WL.CL2.S: Cultural Products, Practices, and Perspectives

Students will be able to define the term "Laotian" and differentiate between the three groups (Lao Loum, Lao Theung, and Lao Sung) that make up the ethnic diversity of Laos through collaborative group research projects. By the end of the lesson, students will understand that ‘Laotian’ includes, but is not limited to, the Lao, Iu Mien, Khmu, Phutai, Tai Lue, Tai Dam, and Tai Deng ethnic groups.

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