Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person 1999
In *Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person (1999)*, psychologist and Lakota elder Dr. Marjorie Anne Napewastewiñ Schützer offers a profound exploration of gender identity within her own community.
Director: Marjorie Anne Napewastewiñ Schützer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person (1999) about?
This documentary examines the cultural and historical role of transsexuality among the Lakota people, framed through the lens of *winkte*—those who embody both masculine and feminine spirits. Through personal and communal narratives, it explores identity, tradition, and the intersection of psychology and Indigenous heritage.
Who directed Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person?
The film was directed by Dr. Marjorie Anne Napewastewiñ Schützer, a Blackfoot/Lakota psychologist and elder whose work specializes in transsexuality within Indigenous communities.
Who stars in Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person?
While the cast isn't widely documented, the film prominently features Dr. Marjorie Anne Napewastewiñ Schützer as both director and central figure, alongside Lakota elders and community members sharing their stories.
Is Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person (1999) worth watching?
As an unrated but culturally significant documentary, it offers a rare and authentic perspective on gender identity in Lakota tradition. Its concise runtime and focus on Indigenous voices make it compelling for those interested in anthropology, LGBTQ+ history, or documentary filmmaking.
How long is Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person?
The film has a runtime of 40 minutes.
About Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person (1999) — A Lakota Documentary on Gender Identity
In *Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person (1999)*, psychologist and Lakota elder Dr. Marjorie Anne Napewastewiñ Schützer offers a profound exploration of gender identity within her own community. This intimate 40-minute documentary sheds light on the Lakota tradition of *winkte*—those who embody two-spirit identities, existing beyond colonial gender norms. Through personal reflections and cultural storytelling, Schützer delves into the historical significance of transsexuality in Lakota society, blending psychology with ancestral wisdom. The film unfolds with quiet intensity, creating an atmosphere of both reverence and introspection as it challenges preconceived notions of gender and identity.
This is more than a historical account—it's a testament to resilience and self-acceptance, presented through the lens of a filmmaker deeply rooted in her heritage. By centering Indigenous perspectives, *Winyanktehca: Two-Souls Person* invites viewers to reconsider the fluidity of human identity while honoring the traditions that have sustained these narratives for generations.