One of the first questions I am often asked by
non-Indigenous peoples is around terminology. There are many varying
perspectives and opinions on whether Indigenous or Aboriginal is preferred.
Some opinions have to do with Section 35 of the Canadian constitution and its
reference to “Aboriginal” rights, others around the prefix “Ab” of Aboriginal
having negative connotations. I would like to share my perspective.
Increasingly the term “Indigenous” to include First Nations,
Métis and Inuit is preferred. This is in line with the United
Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It is important,
however, to elucidate what you are referring to when specifying “Indigenous”
peoples in a policy or strategy. Often, an organization may have a goal to
include “Indigenous peoples” in their recruitment efforts, and yet are at a loss
at what to do should they receive applicants who are “Indigenous” to their
homelands, even if outside of Canada. If an organization is attempting to
create an Indigenous recruitment strategy as part of their reconciliation
efforts, or as a result of the Canadian Truth and Reconciliation Commission
Calls to Action, then it would behoove the organization to be explicit in their
efforts to do so.
When referring to a specific nation, however, it is
preferable to listen to how the community or individual self-identifies. Dale
Carnegie told folks in his 1936 book “How to Win Friends and Influence People”
that “A
person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any
language.”
This principle can be applied to listening to how a Nation
identifies, and to asking for the proper pronunciation on that Nation. To
simply ask someone from the Nation how they pronounce their name and their
Nation shows a deep respect for how they wish to be identified. This is
particularly important if you are called upon to recognize the traditional
territory that you are on when speaking to a group. As we evolve in recognizing
and acknowledging Traditional Territories, the most important part is that the
recognition is an evolution of our own understanding and a growth step in our
own narrative around that recognition. It should not simply be a recitation
from a script. I understand the discomfort those first few acknowledgements. If
you need a script to ensure you do not forget someone, this is fine providing
you are willing to take the time to really consider who and what you are
acknowledging.
I hope that helps. If you have any questions you would love
addressed in a future tip, feel free to send them to [email protected]
with
Inclusion Tips in the subject line. Your question may be addressed,
anonymously, and your submission will be placed in a monthly draw for a prize
next newsletter!
