April 9, 2025 is the International Day of Pink!

Written By Queer Yukon

Discrimination takes many shapes, whether it’s based on race, age, disabilities, gender or sexuality. The 2SLGBTQIA+ community is no stranger to the bullying and violence that stems from hateful beliefs. While progress has been made towards removing these social barriers from our society, discrimination still persists. So, every year, on the second Wednesday of April, we urge people around the world to put on a pink shirt and stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to continue fighting for equality and acceptance.



In 2025, we proudly celebrate the creation of the first Two-Spirit Pride Flag, designed by Patrick Hunter to mark the 35th anniversary of the term "Two-Spirit."

This flag embodies the rich cultural heritage and identity of Two-Spirit individuals, emphasizing the vital importance of representation within the LGBTQ+ community.

The design features two stylized eagle feathers, symbolizing the harmony of masculine and feminine energies that dwell within us all. As Patrick notes, “We walk Turtle Island with these two perspectives at all times, and if they are in harmony, we can achieve anything.” These feathers rest on giizis, the sun, which illuminates our world, representing the boundless nature of our spirits. Patrick beautifully expresses this idea: “Science tells us that we’re all made from star stuff, as old as the universe.” Circles within the design reflect the spectrum of visible light and celebrate the ancient artistic traditions of Indigenous peoples, adding movement and magic to the flag.

Patrick Hunter’s vision encapsulates resilience and the interconnectedness of all beings. He reminds us that “we’re here to add our own verse to the cosmic poem,” encouraging us to embrace our unique contributions. The Two-Spirit Pride Flag stands alongside other iconic pride flags, continuing the legacy of celebrating diverse identities. Join us in uplifting the Two-Spirit community, as we all find our place in this vibrant tapestry of existence. - From the Day of Pink Org.

HONOURING THE

Two-Spirit Pride Flag

Connecting the Journey to Reconciliation

In 2025, we also honor several significant milestones that intersect with the ongoing work of Indigenous resurgence and reconciliation in Canada:

10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION COMMISSION (TRC) FINAL REPORT & THE 94 CALLS TO ACTION:

The TRC’s Final Report, released in 2015, uncovered the long-standing impacts of the Residential School system on Indigenous communities. The 94 Calls to Action urge all Canadians to engage in reconciliation through tangible steps in education, justice, and cultural preservation. These Calls particularly emphasize healing the intergenerational trauma inflicted by colonialism, including the impacts on Two-Spirit and LGBTQ+ Indigenous people.

5TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FINAL REPORT OF THE NATIONAL INQUIRY INTO MISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS WOMEN, GIRLS, AND TWO-SPIRIT PEOPLES (MMIWG2S):

Released in 2019, the MMIWG2S Final Report identified 231 Calls for Justice aimed at addressing systemic violence and the disproportionate harm experienced by Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals. The Calls for Justice demand reforms in law, policing, healthcare, and media representation to protect Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people and restore their dignity and safety.

Answering the Call: Advancing Reconciliation in 2025

As we commemorate these key anniversaries, we are reminded of the urgent need to Answer the Calls laid out by the TRC and the MMIWG2S Inquiry. Whether through education, advocacy, or direct action, each of us has a role in advancing reconciliation. Here’s how you can help:

  • Learn & Amplify: Educate yourself and others on the Two-Spirit identity and the ongoing challenges Indigenous LGBTQ+ individuals face.

  • Support Indigenous Communities: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that work directly with Two-Spirit and Indigenous-led groups.

  • Call for Accountability: Advocate for the implementation of the 231 Calls for Justice and the 94 Calls to Action in your community, schools, and workplaces.

  • Engage with Indigenous Knowledge: Support efforts to revive traditional cultural practices and Indigenous languages that honor and celebrate Two-Spirit people.

By embracing these actions, we not only honor the 35-year legacy of the Two-Spirit term but also commit ourselves to a future of inclusivity, justice, and reconciliation for all Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Let 2025 be a year of reflection and, most importantly, a year of meaningful action. Together, we can help foster a Canada that respects and uplifts Indigenous voices, especially those of Two-Spirit, women, and girls.


There are many ways to create inclusion in your school and community.

Some of ideas include:

  • Wear pink on every second Wednesday of the year to celebrate Day of Pink. Get your friends, family, colleagues and peers involved too!

  • Organize an easy activity or fundraiser like an office lunch, a bake sale, a dress down fundraiser or even just an office announcement.

  • Organize a learning activity by bringing in a speaker (we can suggest some), show an educational video or documentary & have a discussion.

  • Volunteer in your community by reaching out to a local 2SLGBTQIA+ organization and volunteer your time, and encourage others around you to do the same.

Looking for other ways to support - please reach out to us here!

Queer Yukon
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Statement from Minister McLean and Minister McPhee on Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQIA+ Awareness to Celebration Day in the Yukon