March 20, 2025

The City of Edmonton, in partnership with Edmonton 2 Spirit Society (E2S) and Sacred Circle Villages, proudly unveiled the Two-Spirit flag today at City Hall to recognize Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQQIA+ Awareness Day.

“Unveiling this flag is a powerful statement of belonging, resilience, and justice for Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer people,” said Councillor Tim Cartmell. “Edmonton is committed to being a city where all people, regardless of gender identity or cultural background, feel safe, supported and celebrated. We are proud to stand alongside our partners today in continuing the work of reconciliation and inclusion.”

This event highlights the significance of Two-Spirit identities in Indigenous cultures while reaffirming the City’s commitment to reconciliation, inclusion and equity. The flag unveiling was accompanied by an official proclamation from Councillor Cartmell and featured messages from community leaders, Two-Spirit youth and Indigenous Elders.

“The significance of the 4th Annual Two-Spirit & Indigenous LGBTQQIA+ Awareness Day is crucial to recognize within our communities,” said Joshua Morin, Program Manager, Edmonton 2 Spirit Society. “Indigenous peoples have existed since time immemorial, as have Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer individuals. To honour and support this day is to acknowledge our existence as Two-Spirit individuals and the unique gifts we bring to our broader community.”

The event included drumming, cultural performances, performances by Indigenous drag artists and a keynote from Two-Spirit youth, emphasizing the importance of representation and the ongoing advocacy needed to support Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQQIA+ individuals in Edmonton.

“We are honoured to stand alongside E2S in celebrating Two-Spirit and Indigenous
LGBTQQIA+ identities, histories and futures,” said Sadie Thompson, CEO of Sacred Circles
Village (The Village). “Access to healthcare, ceremony and cultural practices is essential for
our collective well-being, and we call on Canadians–all Albertans–to help us empower our Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQQIA+ communities.”

Commitment to inclusion and reconciliation

The City of Edmonton is taking meaningful action to create safer and more inclusive spaces for Indigenous and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. This includes:

The Community Safety and Well-Being Strategy (CSWB), a collaborative initiative involving many partners aimed at reducing inequality, improving access to support services and ensuring all Edmontonians feel safe and included. The Reconciliation Pillar of the CSWB Strategy is a dedicated effort to support Indigenous self-determination, Indigenous-led programs and culturally safe spaces.

The 2SLGBTQIA+ Safe Spaces Action Plan, part of the broader CSWB Strategy, is a community-informed strategy to ensure more inclusive City programs and services, reduce barriers to safety and explore the development of a 2SLGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee.

The Edmonton Queer History Project documents and celebrates the history of Edmonton's 2SLGBTQ+ community through digital storytelling, walking tours and educational resources to promote awareness and visibility.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Municipal Response Plan, the City’s commitment to over 90 actions that uphold Indigenous rights and strengthen governance and service access.

The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Action Plan, a focused initiative to address systemic inequities, support Indigenous families and advocate for policy changes.

Indigenous Cultural Spaces: Edmonton is home to kihcihkaw askî – Canada’s first urban Indigenous ceremonial site, providing a space for cultural practices and intergenerational learning.