Two-Spirit Gathering preparation under way

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The 14th International Two-Spirit Gathering won't take place until Pride weekend in August, but preparations are well under way and interest from all over the world promises a diverse and spiritual experience.

Organized by passionate individuals at the most grassroot level, the annual gathering offers two-spirited Aboriginals a place to interact and share their experiences in a safe environment.

The gathering is for Aboriginal people and for Aboriginals only.

"We don't encourage any non-Aboriginal people to show up," explained Chuck Lafferty, chief organizer of the event. "But we do welcome partners and family members of Aboriginal peoples."

He says that while non-Aboriginal gays and lesbians now have many opportunities to seek support and camaraderie, two-spirited persons need a space that is "specifically for Aboriginal people," which allows them to hold ceremonies and culturally specific workshops.

This year marks the second time the event is held here in British Columbia and more than a hundred people are expected to spend up to seven days at the Chehalis Lodge in Harrison Mills.

"The Two Spirit Gathering is created out of a need for a space where two-spirited people can feel safe, to have a community of our own," said Lafferty. "There's still a lot of homophobia out there, not only in the world at large but within our own community, so there is a real need for us to be together and share our stories."

This year the emphasis is on youth and Elders, as well as respect for diversity. "We're all nations coming together, so it creates some complications in terms of protocol," said Lafferty. It also makes each gathering unique and dynamic, largely depending on the individual participants. But the common goal is for them to "bond, to renew old allies and make new ones," he added.

The gathering will be held from Aug. 6 to 12. Participants will stay at the lodge and room and board is included. Lafferty said he's the only organizer, so far, but a few more people will soon be on board. Fundraisers will be held to help cover the cost of the gathering and lower the fee.

For more information or to help out, call Chuck Lafferty at (604) 861-8117 or email twospirtgathering@hotmail.com.