A new exhibition opening January 31 at the GLBT Historical Society Museum celebrates the 20th anniversary of Bay Area American Indian Two Spirits, an organisation committed to activism and service for the Two-Spirit and ally communities of the San Francisco Bay Area.
«Two-Spirit Voices: Returning to the Circle» focuses on four main themes: LGBTQ and Two-Spirit pride, the annual Two-Spirit Powwow organised by BAAITS, indigenous medicine and responses to HIV/AIDS, and Two-Spirit meaning within indigenous communities. BAAITS members Roger Kuhn, Amelia Vigil and Ruth Villaseñor have curated the show in collaboration with the GLBT Historical Society.
«This exhibition emphasises positive approaches to resistance to the current political climate in the United States, reminding visitors that Two-Spirit people are still here and still queer», Kuhn notes. «In particular, the displays honour the work Two-Spirit people do for native and non-native communities, including standing strong for environmental and social justice».
Drawing on materials such as regalia and textiles, medicines and herbs, and photography and video on loan from community members, as well as materials recently donated to the GLBT Historical Society, the exhibition highlights the resiliency of Two-Spirit people in Northern California.
«Two-Spirit Voices» opens Friday, January 31, at the GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th St., San Francisco, with a public reception set for 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The curators will offer introductory remarks, and light refreshments will be served. Admission is $5.00; free for members of the GLBT Historical Society. Tickets are available online at eventbrite.com.
