Lecture Notes: Understanding Indigenous Peoples in Canada

Definition and Overview

• Indigenous: Refers to people originating or occurring naturally in a particular place.
• Indigenous people are the first inhabitants of a place.
• In Canada, Indigenous people have lived for over 12,000 years.
• Currently, around 1.4 million people identify as Indigenous in Canada.

Terminology

• Preferred Terminology:
  • Use the name of the specific nation (e.g., Algonquin, Cree, Haida, Mohawk) when known.
  • Use "Indigenous" when the specific nation is unknown.
• Less Preferred Terminology:
  • Words like "aboriginal," "native," and "Indian" are less commonly used and can be hurtful.

Indigenous Groups in Canada

1. First Nations
   • The largest and most varied Indigenous group.
   • Includes nations such as Algonquin, Cree, Haida, Mohawk, Ojibwe.
   • Over 50 different nations with unique languages and cultures.
2. Métis
   • Descendants of First Nations peoples and European settlers.
   • Found across Canada.
3. Inuit
   • Indigenous peoples of the Arctic.
   • Also found throughout Canada.

Cultural Influence

• Each nation has its own culture, languages, laws, and spiritual beliefs.
• Indigenous cultures have significantly influenced Canadian society.
  • Contributions include words, inventions, concepts, and games.
  • Examples: Canoe, kayak.
• The name "Canada" derives from the St. Lawrence Iroquois First Nations word kanata, meaning village or settlement.

Key Points to Remember

• Always respect and use the specific nation’s title if known.
• Indigenous peoples have a rich cultural heritage that continues to shape Canada today.