Resurfacing Two-Spirit Identity in Mi'kmaw Language and Culture

John R. Sylliboy is the recipient of the Kausattumi Grants Program Graduate Scholarship Award of 15,000 with the Atlantic Indigenous Mentorship Network for the second year. The award supports John in conducting his research with the L'nu'k (Mi'kmaw people) of Eskasoni First Nation.

Sylliboy's study explores how Mi'kmaw knowledge through culture, language, and oral tradition can provide the foundations to develop positive cultural and emerging identities for Two-spirited youth concerning gender and sexuality using Etuaptmubmk/Two-Eyed Seeing. The overall objective is to improve well-being by re-introducing language, terms, and ceremonies to rebuild Two-spirit identity as a protective factor for mental health and wellness for Two-spirited youth in Mi'kmaw communities in Atlantic Canada.