What Is 2SLGBT

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: 2SLGBTQ+ is an acronym representing Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other diverse gender and sexual identities, with '2S' specifically honoring Indigenous identities in Canada. The term evolved from earlier versions like LGBT and began gaining official recognition in Canadian government documents around 2015. It emphasizes inclusivity and acknowledges the unique cultural significance of Two-Spirit people within Indigenous communities.

Key Facts

The '2S' in 2SLGBTQ+ stands for Two-Spirit, a term coined in 1990 at an Indigenous LGBTQ conference in Winnipeg
Canada officially adopted the 2SLGBTQ+ acronym in federal policy and communications by 2017
Two-Spirit is a pan-Indigenous term used by over 130 distinct First Nations, each with unique traditions
The Pride flag includes Two-Spirit symbolism: a feather in the center or earth-toned stripes
2SLGBTQ+ replaces older acronyms like LGBT to emphasize Indigenous inclusion and diversity

Overview

The term 2SLGBTQ+ is an inclusive acronym used primarily in Canada to represent diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. It expands on earlier versions like LGBT by placing Indigenous identities first, recognizing the unique cultural and spiritual roles of Two-Spirit people.

Unlike generic LGBTQ+ terminology, 2SLGBTQ+ specifically centers Indigenous experiences and challenges colonial erasure of gender and sexual diversity in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. It is now widely used in government, education, and advocacy to promote equity and visibility.

Two-Spirit (2S): A modern, pan-Indigenous term adopted in 1990 to describe people embodying both masculine and feminine spirits, with distinct roles in over 130 nations.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual: Refers to diverse sexual orientations, with approximately 3.2% of Canadians identifying as LGB according to 2021 Statistics Canada data.
Transgender: Describes individuals whose gender identity differs from sex assigned at birth, representing about 0.3% of the Canadian population or roughly 105,000 people.
Queer and questioning: 'Queer' is an umbrella term reclaimed by many; 'questioning' acknowledges those exploring identity, particularly among youth under age 25.
Plus (+): Includes intersex, asexual, pansexual, and other identities not explicitly named, reflecting the acronym’s commitment to ongoing inclusivity.

How It Works

2SLGBTQ+ functions as a linguistic and political framework that prioritizes Indigenous sovereignty and intersectionality within LGBTQ+ discourse. Each component carries historical, cultural, and social significance.

Two-Spirit (2S): Coined in 1990 at the Third Annual Inter-tribal Native American/First Nations Gay and Lesbian Conference in Winnipeg, this term unifies diverse Indigenous identities under a respectful, self-defined label.
Lesbian: Refers to women attracted romantically and sexually to other women; visibility increased significantly after the 1969 decriminalization of homosexuality in Canada.
Gay: Commonly describes men attracted to men, though it can include women; the term gained prominence during the Stonewall Riots of 1969 and global rights movements.
Bisexual: Individuals attracted to more than one gender; studies show bi+ people make up over half of the LGB population in North America.
Transgender: A person whose gender identity differs from birth assignment; Canada legally recognized gender identity as a protected ground in 2017 under Bill C-16.
Queer and +: 'Queer' was historically derogatory but reclaimed in the 1990s; the '+' ensures inclusion of evolving identities like intersex and asexual communities.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of 2SLGBTQ+ with related acronyms used in different regions and contexts:

Acronym	Region	Key Features	Year Emerged	Inclusivity Level
LGBT	Global	Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender	1980s	Medium
LGBTQ+	US, UK	Adds 'queer' and '+' for inclusivity	2000s	High
2SLGBTQ+	Canada	Places Two-Spirit first, Indigenous-centered	2017	Very High
LGBTQ2S	Canada (alternate)	Same as 2SLGBTQ+ but different order	2015	Very High
LGBTIQ+	Australia	Includes intersex explicitly	2010s	High

This table shows how terminology evolves regionally to reflect cultural priorities. Canada’s adoption of 2SLGBTQ+ underscores a national commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous rights, distinguishing it from other models.

Why It Matters

Using 2SLGBTQ+ is more than a linguistic update—it’s a step toward decolonizing gender and sexuality discourse and affirming Indigenous worldviews. It acknowledges historical trauma while supporting contemporary equity efforts.

Recognition of sovereignty: Centers Indigenous self-determination by using a term created by and for Native communities, resisting external labels.
Improved health outcomes: Inclusive language correlates with lower suicide rates and better mental health access for 2SLGBTQ+ youth.
Policy impact: Federal funding and anti-discrimination laws in Canada now explicitly reference 2SLGBTQ+, improving service accessibility.
Educational inclusion: School curricula in provinces like Ontario now integrate 2SLGBTQ+ histories and figures, fostering safer environments.
Cultural revitalization: Two-Spirit traditions, once suppressed by residential schools, are being reclaimed through art, ceremony, and community leadership.
Global influence: Canada’s model inspires other nations to consider Indigenous inclusion in LGBTQ+ advocacy frameworks.

As language evolves, so does society’s capacity for empathy and justice. The 2SLGBTQ+ acronym is a living testament to resilience, diversity, and the ongoing journey toward equity.