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203 Q Glossary Q [Modified from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada , “Words First: An Evolving Terminology Relating to Aboriginal Peoples in Canada,” online at http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca.] Aboriginal peoples The descendants of the original inhabitants of North America. The Canadian Constitution recognizes three separate peoples— Indians, Métis, and Inuit. Band A community of Indians for whom lands have been set apart or money is held by the federal government. Each band has its own chief and governing Band Council chosen through election or sometimes through custom. Today many bands prefer to be known as First Nations. First Nation A term selected to replace the word “Indian,” which some people consider offensive. “First Nations peoples,” however, refers to all the Indian peoples of Canada, both Status and non-Status. Indian The term “Indian” collectively describes all the indigenous peoples in Canada who are not Inuit or Métis. There are legal reasons for the continued use of this term, which is recognized in the Canadian Constitution and the Indian Act. Indian Act Canadian federal legislation that defines an individual’s legal status as an Indian and regulates the management of their reserve lands, money, and resources. Indigenous peoples The word “indigenous” means “native to the area.” Its meaning is similar to “Native peoples,” “Aboriginal peoples,” or “First peoples.” Métis People with mixed Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal ancestry who identify themselves as Métis. Métis communities have their own unique culture, which draws on their ancestral origins such as Cree, Ojibwe, French, or British. Métis peoples are entitled to certain rights both under Canada’s Constitution and in the law of the land. 204 Glossary Non-Status Indian A person who considers himself or herself to be Indian, but is not recognized as such by the government and is not entitled to the rights and benefits of a Status Indian. Reserve Lands set apart for the use and benefit of an Aboriginal band, but the federal government retains ownership of the tract of land. Band members, all Status Indians, receive location certificates for their properties, which usually remain in the family. Many bands now prefer the term “First Nation community.” Status Indian A person who is recognized as an Indian under the Indian Act and is entitled to various rights and benefits, but is also subject to restrictions. ...

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