Aboriginal Terminology: What to use, and when

Current Terminology When talking with or about Aboriginal peoples, it is important to use terms that are respectful and appropriate There are many different terms, as there are many types of Aboriginal peoples Aboriginal: an adjective that is always capitalized

Definitions The three groups of Aboriginal peoples in Canada are referred to as “­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­First Nations” “Inuit”, or “Metis” as recognized by the Constitution of 1982. Aboriginal people may further self-identify themselves according to their language and region (i.e. Swampy Cree, Michif).

Historical Terminology “Indian” – Christopher Columbus The name “Indian” is still used in certain contexts to refer to members of First Nations groups, because it has legal connotations and definitions in treaties, in federal law, and in the recognition of rights by the government. “Tribe” and “Band” are still used in this context.

Then and now.. Reservation vs. community Tribe/band vs. First Nation Half-breed, half-caste, mixed-blood vs. Metis Eskimo vs. Inuit

Resources for more information Treaty Commissioner of Manitoba Manitoba Metis Federation Manitoba First Nations Education Research Centre Parks Canada Manitoba Heritage Human Rights Commission Individual “band” offices; different First Nations’ leadership councils