a term defined in the Constitution Act of 1982 that refers to all indigenous people in Canada, including Indians (status and non-status), Métis, and Inuit people.
A term frequently used to describe the first inhabitants of what is now Canada, and their descendents. Each Nation of "Turtle Island" (North America) has a name for themselves which when translated implies “The People” or “The Human Beings.” Other terms include First Nations, Native, Indigenous, Indian, Metis, Dene and Inuit. Some of these terms are generic and some describe a subset within Aboriginal societies. The preferred terminology fluctuates for several reasons, including problems with "outside naming", categorization, and different Tribal and regional preferences. An effective approach is to consult with the person or group addressed to find out their preferred terminology.