The 11 Indigenous Nations of Québec

Québec is home to eleven Indigenous nations: ten First Nations and the Inuit Nation. These nations are characterized by their diversity, each with its own unique history, language, and culture. For a long time, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people lived side by side without truly knowing each other. Now, it’s time to connect with these nations that have inhabited Québec for millennia, who know it intimately and shape its identity. Let’s embark on this journey of discovery.

The 10 First Nations are spread across 40 communities scattered throughout Québec. Most of these communities are reserves administered by band councils. The Inuit Nation, on the other hand, is made up of 15 communities located in the Nunavik region of northern Québec. Unlike the First Nations, Inuit communities are governed by a municipal-type system. It’s important to note that for several decades, a significant number of Indigenous people have been living outside their communities, mainly in urban areas, and this number is rapidly growing. In 2021, according to Statistics Canada, the number of people identifying as Aboriginal (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) represented 2.5% of Québec’s total population.