Often used interchangeably with “Indigenous peoples” and “First Peoples”, Aboriginal peoples refers to a diversity of nations and peoples with deep roots in the territories they have occupied for millennia. Their histories are intertwined through the impact of colonization and the cultural or physical genocides perpetrated against them by colonizing states. The Constitution Act, 1982 recognizes that there are three distinct Aboriginal peoples: Indians (now called First Nations), Métis and Inuit.
There are 11 Aboriginal nations recognized in Québec: Abenaki (Waban-Aki), Algonquin (Anishinabeg), Atikamekw Nehirowisiwok, Cree (Eeyou), Huron-Wendat, Inuit, Maliseet (Wolastoqiyik), Mi’gmaq (Micmac), Mohawk (Kanien'kehá:ka), Innu (Montagnais) and Naskapi. Across Canada, there are nearly sixty Aboriginal nations.
have long possessed and asserted rights distinct from those of other citizens. Is this a historical aberration, an affront to the principle of equality for all? For most people, the answer is far from clear-cut.
Photo credit: Cleveland Press, collection of Pierre Lepage
The term Indian is still used legally to refer to people with Indian status under the Indian Act, which is still in force in Canada. However, it is considered outdated and should be replaced with First Nation or member of a First Nation.
Act. What are its origins? Does it create an unjust system of privileges? And what of the unique status accorded to the Inuit?
To unravel numerous misconceptions and truly understand, it’s essential to establish some historical context. Let’s get started!
Key Figures
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal men and women who have shaped the history of Québec—both the well-known and the lesser-known.
Jean Chrétien
Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development who would go on to become Prime Minister of Canada
Politique d’assimilation
Key events
Nicolas Vincent Tsawenhohi
Grand Chief of the Huron-Wendat Nation
Aboriginal leaders
Aboriginal movements
Self-determination
Ted Moses
Prominent leader of the Cree Nation
Aboriginal leaders
Key events
Ghislain Picard
Regional Chief of the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador
Aboriginal leaders
Politics
Taamusi Qumaq
Historian, linguist, writer and politician
Aboriginal leaders
Key events
Ways of life
Sandra Lovelace and Janet Corbière-Lavell
Activists fighting for aboriginal women's rights
Aboriginal movements
Aboriginal women
Jules Sioui
Initiator of the North American Indian Nation Government
