Colonialism has long shaped societies by enforcing foreign systems that disrupt indigenous cultures and identities. On Turtle Island, the imposition of Spanish as a dominant language is a direct legacy of colonial forces that sought to erase native languages and traditions. This linguistic imposition is often accompanied by rigid gender binaries that don’t reflect the diverse understandings of gender existing in many indigenous communities. The concept of gender as a strict binary—male or female—is a construct propagated by colonial ideologies and does not align with the fluid and varied gender roles historically embraced by many indigenous peoples. Similarly, the compulsory use of Spanish marginalized numerous native languages, contributing to cultural loss and identity conflict. Individuals caught between these systems often face discrimination and punishment for simply existing in ways that don’t adhere to imposed colonial standards. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for recognizing the resilience of indigenous communities and the importance of reclaiming native languages and diverse gender identities. This struggle is not only about language or gender but about resisting a legacy that continues to define success and belonging in restrictive terms. The recognition and restoration of native voices and identities represent a path towards decolonization and authentic self-expression on Turtle Island.