Meet Our Elders
Elder Akiwïw
Cree Name: Paskwâw Pîsim (Buffalo Moon)
Gender Identity: Female, with a gender-neutral approach
Elder Akiwïw, or Paskwâw Pîsim, grew up during the era of residential schools, where her Two-Spirit identity was rejected and punished. Despite the trauma she endured, she held onto the understanding that her identity was sacred. Over the years, she worked to heal from the abuse of the residential schools and the cultural erasure of Two-Spirit people, eventually reclaiming her role as a healer and advocate. Now, as an Elder, Paskwâw Pîsim facilitates healing circles for Two-Spirit individuals, guiding them in overcoming the trauma of colonialism and empowering them to embrace their identities as vital members of their communities.
Elder Nitisak
Cree Name: Wâpiskâw Pîsim (White Moon)
Gender Identity: Female
Wâpiskâw Pîsim, known as Elder Nitisak, was raised in a time when colonial forces and Christian missionaries silenced the teachings of Two-Spirit people. Growing up in a Cree community, she faced exclusion for embodying both masculine and feminine energies, something the outside world viewed as unnatural. However, through the teachings of her grandmother, she learned that Two-Spirit people held a sacred role in Indigenous culture. As an Elder, Nitisak uses the strength gained from her experiences to create healing circles where Two-Spirit individuals can reclaim their identities and heal from the trauma of colonialism and discrimination, reminding them that their existence is both valid and sacred.
Elder Tawisq
Cree Name: Wîcihîw Pîsim (Northern Star)
Gender Identity: Male (with strong feminine energy)
Elder Tawisq, or Wîcihîw Pîsim, struggled with societal expectations throughout his life, feeling disconnected from both the colonial and Indigenous norms that tried to define him. As a young man, he faced rejection from his Cree community and was ostracized for embodying both male and female qualities. After years of hardship, including homelessness and depression, he found solace in connecting with other Two-Spirit people and reclaiming his cultural roots. Now, as an Elder, Tawisq facilitates healing circles where he empowers Two-Spirit individuals to embrace both their masculine and feminine energies and heal from the discrimination and trauma they’ve faced.