Summary of Living the Spirit, A Gay American Indian Anthology (Stonewall Inn Editions)
"Living the Spirit: A Gay American Indian Anthology" offers a profound exploration of the intersectional identities within the Native American LGBTQ+ community. Published in 1988 by Stonewall Inn Editions in collaboration with St. Martin’s Press, this anthology gathers essays and stories from over twenty tribes across North America, making it a seminal work in both gender equality and indigenous rights domains. Curated by voices from within the community, the collection illuminates the unique challenges, joys, and cultural traditions of gay American Indians, providing a platform for a group historically sidelined in both their tribal and queer circles. Through poignant narratives—be it contemporary coyote tales or harrowing accounts of reservation life—contributors like Beth Brant and Chrystos share not only their adversities but also their triumphs and enduring spirit. Ideal for high school readers, this anthology not only educates but also empowers, urging young minds to consider the rich tapestry of human experience and the resilience it takes to live authentically at the crossroads of diverse identities.