Niish Manidoowag (Two Spirited Beings)

Films by Genre

5MIN

Availability ended 15/11/2020 GMT
Wapikoni Mobile — Cinema on Wheels
(now-15 Nov worldwide) Four youth travel Bebamikawe Trail on Wiikwemkoong Unceded First Nation Territory. Two of the youths are Two Spirited and discuss the confrontations and acceptance that they have encountered within their community and how it has affected their ability to experience and learn their culture. Long before the settlers arrived to Turtle Island (aka North America), there existed a Two Spirit Society in many tribal communities. The Two Spirited people were revered and treated with respect and equality. They were sought for their wisdom, healing and visions. Once a child had reached the age of puberty, a special ceremony was held. The child would enter a lodge, and pick either a basket or a bow. The item chosen helped to provide guidance on whether the feminine or masculine role would be the path followed. The Two Spirit Society was quickly abolished with the arrival of settlers. The Two Spirit Society has been revived….Niish Manidoowag speaks to the real issues that Transgender Youth encounter in their life’s journey. We honour all LGBQT peoples everywhere.

Included with

Director Bio


Debbie S. Mishibinijima is an Odawa/Potawatomi woman from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. First and foremost, Debbie is a proud mother to her teenage daughter. She graduated with an Honours Bachelors of Arts degree in Communication Studies with Laurentian University. She also has a diploma from a Broadcast New Media program with Cambrian College. She previously worked at Wawatay Native Communications Society in Sioux Lookout and in Timmins as a newspaper reporter and multimedia producer. Her long-term vision is to use modern technology to promote and revitalize the Anishinaabemowin language.

Credits

Directed by Debbie S. Mishibinijima

Production Company Wapikoni Mobile

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