Save the date for NE2SS’ 2012 Gathering - September 7-9, 2012. Once again, this year’s gathering will be held at the scenic Camp deWolfe on Long Island.

2010 Gathering write-up from an attendee

Our first gathering was a huge success! We would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to the event.

Here are some things people had to say about the gathering:

I attended the first annual Northeast Two Spirit Society’s gathering this past October, and I was very honored and excited to be there. I was happy to participate in some of the workshops that were offered. I personally attended the beading workshop and found it very inspirational and interesting as the instructor was so patient and kind to share his knowledge with us. I was given the honor of being asked to be the head lady dancer at the powwow and still feel blessed and lucky to have been chosen. For myself, I feel that the powwow event is the highlight of Two Spirit gatherings because it is usually the only time where I can attend a powwow and share in its unique and spiritually fulfilling experience with others like myself. When I hear the beating of the drum and the sacred songs being sung, the sounds of the jingles and bells, and feel the powerful energy that we in that circle create, I feel balanced, joyous and free.

As Two Spirit people, we can be far apart from one another as we may live in urban or rural settings or on reserves from coast to coast. I feel it is important to meet other First Nations, Native American and Alaska Natives from all over Turtle Island (North America) .Our new friends soon become family to us as bonds between us grow and strengthen each time we go to a gathering. It is very important for my family to attend these gatherings as my wife and I leave feeling renewed, happier and more spiritually balanced after attending a Two Spirit Gathering. I hope we give as much as we receive from these events too! Attending Two Spirit gatherings have surely strengthened my wife and I on our journeys as two spirited people. Our daughter has enjoyed a gathering as well, with the no-talent show being her favorite event. Hopefully, we will be able to attend the next NESS gathering in 2011 and we will bring any skills or talents that can be utilized, as well as our love and respect for our fellow two spirit friends and family that we are always looking forward to seeing again.