Political Correctness Not Always Preferred

When writing or speaking about indigenous people there are several terms available for us to use.  Older words have been replaced with newer, more culturally-sensitive phrases.  Sometimes it can get confusing to know just which term is appropriate for which group of people.

Some terms are either too inclusive or not inclusive enough.  They are ambiguous, not really portraying the group accurately.  A slow change began in the late 60s to use more respectful and meaningful terms.  The more recent trend is to recognize individual status by saying the person's name followed by which tribe (Nation) he/she belongs to.  This is helpful as indigenous people as a whole are diverse, practicing many different languages and cultural traditions.

The 2006 Associated Press Stylebook recommends the use of American Indian, even though the term "Indian" is not really accurate.  The term Indian began when Christopher Columbus mistook the Americas for the Indies (Asia.)

In Canada, all governments use First Nations or Aboriginal Peoples.  The media no longer uses Indian unless the word is in the name of an organization, or in a legal or administrative context.  In Canadian media the term Native or Native Canadian are used when speaking.  First Nations or Aboriginal Peoples are used in print; however, many "First People" still prefer the familiar term of Indian.

There is a glossary of words pertaining to indigenous people on today's blog at http://www.valfox.webs.com.  The list includes such terms as: First Nations, Indian Canadian, tribe, aboriginal, Native American and many more.  It may be helpful to use the glossary as a guide along with the following points: Recognize that there are no alternative terms that will be accepted by ALL people; Use the term or name preferred by the people themselves; Remember it is not just the word or title that's important - it is the intention behind our choice of term.  Avoid ugly stereotypes and you'll be fine.  Thanks for your support on the website.

                                                                  Respectfully,         rcticfox