Indigenous people is one of many collective names used to refer to the original inhabitants of Canada and their descendants. The Canadian Constitution recognizes the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people as the three distinct Indigenous groups within Canada. These groups have their own individual histories, traditions, languages, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. Indigenous peoples in Canada are considered to be the fastest growing population, with approximately 1.4 million people identifying themselves as Indigenous. As Canadians, we are encouraged to learn more about the people and communities we share this land with.
First Nations is a collective term that recognizes countless and diverse Indigenous communities in Canada that were once referred to as Indian. First Nations includes both status and non-status peoples.
Métis describes the descendants of the fur trade who are of mixed ancestry (i.e., Indigenous women and French, Scottish, and English fur traders who married). This term also acknowledges the will of the individual to self-identify as Métis
Inuit is a distinct group of Indigenous People mainly living in Nunavut, Northwest Territories, Northern Quebec and Northern Labrador.
POPE FRANCIS' UNIVERSAL PRAYER INTENTION FOR JULY:
"That Indigenous peoples, whose identity and very existense threatened will be shown due respect."