Indigenous Aware

Welcome

Thank you for taking the time to explore this Indigenous Awareness Resource. I am always grateful for those who seek to learn, understand, and respect the diverse identities, histories, and cultures of Indigenous peoples. Language plays a powerful role in awareness and reconciliation, and this guide is meant to provide clarity on commonly used terms while honouring the distinct identities of Indigenous communities.

I am always happy to share knowledge and engage in meaningful conversations about Indigenous awareness. I encourage you to use this resource with an open mind and heart, and I appreciate your commitment to learning. When in doubt….USE THE TERM ‘INDIGENOUS’. — Ross Pambrun

  • “Indigenous” is the preferred modern term to collectively refer to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada.
  • It is also used internationally to describe original inhabitants of lands colonized by outsiders.
  • The term emphasizes self-determination and cultural identity, avoiding colonial-era labels.
  • While widely accepted, Indigenous peoples often prefer to be identified by their specific nation, such as Cree, Mohawk, or Dene.

  • “First Nation” refers to Indigenous peoples in Canada who are neither Métis nor Inuit.
  • It is a modern term that replaced “Indian” in common use, though “Indian” is still a legal term under the Indian Act.
  • First Nations have unique cultures, languages, and governance structures, with many living on reserves or in urban areas.
  • The term does not apply to Indigenous peoples in the United States, where “Tribe” or “Nation” is commonly used.

  • “Half-Breed” is an outdated and offensive term historically used to describe people of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
  • It was a legal designation in some historical government policies but is no longer appropriate or acceptable.
  • The Métis Nation has reclaimed and embraced its distinct cultural identity, separate from colonial classifications.
  • Today, “Métis” is the recognized term for this group in Canada, while in the U.S., terms like “mixed-race Native American” are more common.

  • “Aboriginal” was a term widely used in Canada to refer to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples collectively.
  • In 2016, the Canadian government shifted to using “Indigenous” as the preferred term, recognizing concerns that “Aboriginal” is a colonial term.
  • Some legal documents, like the Constitution Act of 1982, still use “Aboriginal,” so the term has legal relevance.
  • While still understood, Indigenous communities increasingly prefer “Indigenous” to better reflect self-identification and cultural identities.

  • “Status Indian” refers to individuals recognized under the Indian Act in Canada, granting them specific rights and benefits.
  • Status is determined by the federal government and can affect access to healthcare, education, and tax exemptions on reserves.
  • Not all Indigenous people have status, and some lost it historically due to discriminatory laws, such as women losing status upon marrying a non-Status man.
  • Status does not define Indigenous identity, as many non-Status Indians still maintain strong cultural and ancestral ties.

  • A “Non-Status Indian” is a person of Indigenous ancestry who is not recognized under the Indian Act.
  • Many lost status due to historical government policies, such as enfranchisement or gender-based discrimination.
  • Despite lacking legal recognition, many Non-Status Indians remain connected to their Indigenous communities and traditions.
  • Advocacy efforts continue to push for recognition and rights for Non-Status individuals, as many were unfairly excluded from official status.

  • “Native” is a broad and informal term that can refer to Indigenous peoples but lacks a legal definition.
  • Some Indigenous people use “Native” as a self-identifier, but others find it too vague or outdated.
  • In the U.S., “Native American” is commonly used, though some prefer tribal-specific identities.
  • While widely recognized, “Native” should be used with care and respect, as preferences vary among Indigenous individuals and communities.

  • “Inuk” is the singular form of “Inuit,” referring to an individual from the Inuit people of Arctic Canada, Greenland, and Alaska.
  • The Inuit have distinct languages, traditions, and governance separate from First Nations and Métis peoples.
  • Historically, Inuit were referred to as “Eskimo,” but this term is now considered outdated and offensive in Canada.
  • Inuit communities continue to advocate for recognition of their rights, land, and self-governance.

  • “Inuit” is the plural term for the Indigenous peoples of the Arctic regions in Canada, Greenland, and parts of Alaska.
  • The term means “the people” in the Inuktitut language, reflecting their unique cultural identity.
  • Inuit are distinct from First Nations and Métis, with their own governance structures and modern land claims agreements.
  • The Canadian Constitution recognizes Inuit as one of the three Indigenous groups in Canada.

  • A “Reserve” is land set aside by the Canadian government for the use of a specific First Nation under the Indian Act.
  • Reserves are not owned by Indigenous people but held in trust by the government, limiting land rights and development.
  • Living conditions on reserves vary, with some communities facing challenges like inadequate housing and infrastructure.
  • While reserves provide a connection to traditional lands, many Indigenous people also live in cities due to employment and education opportunities.

  • “Tribe” is a term commonly used in the United States to refer to Indigenous nations with recognized sovereignty.
  • Some Indigenous communities use “Tribal Council” to describe their governing body, while others prefer “Nation.”
  • The term has colonial roots but remains widely accepted in U.S. legal and cultural contexts.
  • In Canada, “Tribe” is less commonly used, with “First Nation” being the preferred term.

  • “Aleut” refers to the Indigenous people of the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, and parts of Russia.
  • They are distinct from Inuit and have their own language and cultural traditions.
  • The Aleut were historically impacted by Russian colonization and later U.S. governance.
  • Many Aleut people continue to preserve their traditions while integrating into modern society.

  • “Indian” is a colonial term used to describe Indigenous peoples in North America, stemming from Christopher Columbus’ mistaken belief he had reached India.
  • The term is still used in legal contexts, such as the Indian Act in Canada and the Bureau of Indian Affairs in the U.S.
  • Many Indigenous people reject the term due to its colonial and inaccurate origins, preferring their specific nation’s name.
  • Some older Indigenous individuals continue to use “Indian” as a self-identifier, but it should generally be avoided in casual conversation.

  • “Métis” refers to a distinct Indigenous group in Canada with mixed First Nations and European ancestry.
  • Métis culture, language (Michif), and traditions are unique and separate from both First Nations and European settlers.
  • The Métis Nation has fought for recognition and rights, culminating in legal victories such as the 2016 Daniels Decision.
  • Not all people of mixed Indigenous and European descent are Métis; the term specifically refers to those with historical Métis community ties.

  • “Hawaiian” refers to the Indigenous people of Hawai’i, who have a distinct Polynesian culture and history.
  • Unlike North American Indigenous nations, Hawaiians were once a sovereign kingdom before U.S. annexation in 1898.
  • Native Hawaiians continue to fight for land rights, cultural preservation, and political recognition.
  • The term “Hawaiian” should not be used for non-Indigenous residents of Hawai’i, as it specifically refers to Indigenous Hawaiians.

  • “Otipemisiwak” is a Cree word meaning “the people who own themselves.”
  • It is often used to describe the Métis people, who historically governed themselves independently of colonial authorities.
  • The term reflects the Métis’ resistance to European control and their efforts to maintain self-determination.
  • Today, Otipemisiwak remains a powerful expression of Métis identity and sovereignty.