Bay Area American Indian Two-Spirits group marks 20 years with exhibit

The organization is also set to hold its 8th annual Two-Spirits Powwow, the largest of its kind

Bay Area American Indian Two-Spirits will hold its eighth annual Two-Spirits Powwow at Fort Mason. Photo: Richard Castaneda / BAAITS

Given that the Bay Area has been a hub of both Native American and queer resistance for decades, it only makes sense that the largest two-spirit powwow in North America would happen here annually at the Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture.

But not only does this year mark the eighth powwow — set for Saturday, Feb. 2 — it also marks 20 years for the organization, Bay Area American Indian Two-Spirits, that has been spearheading the celebration.

As part of a celebration of the group’s history, on Thursday, Jan. 31, the GLBT Historical Society is unveiling “Two-Spirit Voices,” an exhibit that celebrates Bay Area American Indian Two-Spirits’ 20-year history. The term “two-spirit” is a pan-tribal term that refers to a wide variety of variance in sexual orientation and gender identity.

The exhibition, curated by three people with deep ties to the organization, looks at four elements — “gay and two-spirit pride, the annual BAAITS Two-Spirit Powwow, indigenous medicine and responses to HIV/AIDS and two-spirit meaning within indigenous communities” — through a variety of media, including textiles, video, photography, archival materials and medicines.

Two-Spirit Voices Opening Reception: 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 31. $5. GLBT Historical Society Museum, 4127 18th St., S.F. www.glbthistory.org

Two-Spirit Powwow: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2. Donations welcome. Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, 2 Marina Blvd., S.F. www.baaits.org

  • Ryan Kost
    Ryan Kost Ryan Kost is a San Francisco Chronicle features writer. Email: rkost@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @RyanKost