A local voice is among those appointed to the newly formed Ontario First Nations Keepers of the Circle – 2S/LGBTQQIAPD+ Council, a group dedicated to creating safer and more inclusive spaces for Two Spirit and LGBTQ2IA+ people.
NaWalka Geeshy Meegwun, also known as Lyndon George, is a member of the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nations. His father is from Aazhoodena (Stony Point First Nation) and his mother from Aamjiwnaang (Chippewas of Sarnia First Nation). Meegwun identifies as Anishnaabe Ojokwe, one of the many terms for Two Spirit–Two Heart people.
A survivor of the Federal Indian Day School system and a first-generation residential school survivor, Meegwun carries the legacy of his mother, Sylvia, who survived the residential school system. He is also a family member of the late Dudley George, known for his role in the Ipperwash Crisis.
Throughout his life, Meegwun has been a steadfast advocate for Indigenous rights and representation. He has worked with Indigenous people both on and off reserve, delivered presentations on Indigenous matters at local, provincial, national, and international levels, and continues to speak about justice, reconciliation, and inclusion.
Currently living in the Dish With One Spoon Treaty Territory, Meegwun holds a respected position in many community circles and works in the justice field. As a Two Spirit–Two Heart person, he represents a unique and honoured identity deeply rooted in Anishinaabe history and language.
In a statement shared by the Chiefs of Ontario, the newly formed council was described as a group of “passionate advocates working to create safer, more inclusive spaces for Two Spirit and LGBTQQIAPD+ people across our Nations.” Members, including Meegwun, will guide future initiatives with lived experience and cultural knowledge, ensuring Indigenous voices shape decisions that impact their shared future.
“Two Heart Two Spirit people are part of our shared Indigenous history and have been present, accepted, loved and protected in our circles since time immemorial,” Meegwun shared. “We do not get to pick and choose what is and what is not part of our history. Our existence as Two Spirit–Two Heart people is embedded in our ancient languages.”
