Glossary

A term used in reference to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. However, it may no longer be the preferred term, as language use is changing and more are embracing the term “Indigenous.”

A term used to describe the gap that exists between those who have access to information and communication technologies (e.g., the internet) and those who do not. Some of the reasons for the digital divide include lack of digital literacy, high costs of online access, and lack of connectivity. Although these are part of the barriers that some First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities face, the disproportionate digital divide they experience speaks to a greater human rights and equity issue: the government has not adequately invested in the infrastructure needed for Indigenous communities to have fast, reliable internet. This inequity is not random, and it denies many Indigenous people an essential service that they are entitled to.

A historical misnomer for Inuit with negative meaning for many that should be avoided. A large number of Inuit live in B.C.

First Nations People are descendants of the original inhabitants of what is now Canada who lived here for many thousands of years before explorers arrived from Europe. First Nations People have distinct cultures, languages, and traditions and connections to a particular land base of traditional territory.

A historical misnomer for an Indigenous person that carries negative meanings for many Indigenous people as an imposed term. Use of this term should be avoided unless it is part of a historical reference, part of a legacy term, or used in reference to a government policy or classification (e.g., Indian Act,  “status Indian,” “the Musqueam Indian Band”). While there are some status First Nations who prefer this term, “Indian” is considered an “in-group” term for their use.

A general term preferred in international writing and discussion that is gaining broader acceptance in Canada. In Canada, “Indigenous” collectively refers to people who identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit.

A group of people who share cultural similarities and inhabit the Arctic regions of Canada, Greenland, Russia, and the United States of America. Inuit is a plural noun; the singular is Inuk. Also note that “Inuit” means “people,” so it is redundant to say “Inuit people.”

A French term for “mixed blood” that refers to the specific group of Indigenous people who trace their ancestry to the Métis homeland and are accepted members of the Métis community.