Two-spirited N.B. First Nation chief says his election points to progress
Jun 17, 2018 | 10:30 AM
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FREDERICTON — The new leader of a New Brunswick First Nation says he’s proud to be the first openly LGBTQ chief in Atlantic Canada — though he says he’s more well-known in his community for his leadership skills and creativity.
Allan (Chicky) Polchies Jr. identifies as two-spirited, an umbrella term referring to Indigenous people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, or someone who has both a masculine and a feminine spirit.
Polchies was elected as chief of St. Mary’s First Nation last week, unseating incumbent Candice Paul, who had held the position for 14 years.
He says the appointment and support from the community sends a positive message to young people who may be struggling with their sexuality or identities.
