Module 1 - Terms and Definitions: Who Are Indigenous Peoples? Flashcards
What does the term “Indigenous” primarily refer to in Canada?
Indigenous refers to numerous and distinctive groups of Indigenous people in Canada and aligns with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
Why did the federal government change the name of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development to Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC)?
To acknowledge the international legal rights of Indigenous peoples as outlined in UNDRIP.
How is the term “Aboriginal” defined in Canada?
It is legally defined in Section 35 of the Constitution Act of 1982 to include Indian, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Why has the term “Aboriginal” become controversial to some groups?
Some believe it represents assimilation and displaces specific inherent and treaty rights.
What is the difference between “Status Indian” and “Non-Status Indian”?
Status Indians are legally recognized under the Indian Act, whereas Non-Status Indians do not meet the Indian Act’s definition but are neither Métis nor Inuit.
What is the distinction between “Status Indian” and “Treaty Indian”?
Treaty Indians are descendants of those who signed treaties with the Canadian government, while Status Indians are defined under the Indian Act. Not all Status Indians are Treaty Indians.
What term has replaced “Indian Reserve” and “Status Indian” in many cases?
The term “First Nation” is now more commonly used.
How are Inuit people categorized in Canada?
Inuit are not considered Indian under the Indian Act but fall under federal jurisdiction as determined by a 1939 Supreme Court decision.
What defines the Métis people?
Métis are of mixed First Nations and European ancestry with a distinct culture and are recognized as Aboriginal under the Constitution but not under the Indian Act.
What was the impact of the 2016 Daniels Decision on Métis and Non-Status Indians?
It declared that Métis and Non-Status Indians fall under federal jurisdiction, though they are still not under the Indian Act.
