First Nation, Inuit and Métis: what’s in a name?

(NC) As Canadians get set to celebrate National Aboriginal Day on June 21, the start of Summer Solstice, it’s also an opportunity to learn more about First Nation, Inuit and Métis people in Canada.

For example, do you know the difference between First Nation, Inuit and Métis?

• First Nation replaces the outdated term “Indian” and refers to status and non-status Indigenous people.

• Métis people are a mix of First Nation and European ancestry and identify themselves as Métis people, separate from First Nations, Inuit or non-Aboriginal people.

• Inuit people are an indigenous people in northern Canada who live above the tree line in Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, Northern Quebec and Labrador. The word “Inuit” means “people” in Inuktitut.

2016 marks the 20th anniversary of National Aboriginal Day, which recognizes the culture, history and song of First Nation, Inuit and Métis people in Canada. You can find celebrations in your area by contacting your nearest Friendship Centre or visiting www.canada.ca/en/indigenous-northern-affairs/.