Misconception and Reality of Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples
Gloria Yu
Misconception: The terms "Aboriginal" and "Native" are used to define one homogenous group of people in Canada.
"Indigenous”, "Native", and "Aboriginal" are used as broad terms to collectively describe three different cultural groups known as "First Nations", the "Metis", and the "Inuit". These three groups all have their own unique culture, historical background, and political goals. The group known as “First Nations” has 633 bands, representing 52 cultural groups or nations and over 50 languages. Most individuals prefer to be called by the specific nation they belong in because each has its own traditional political structure, history, and spirituality. “Aboriginal” is a term used to describe individuals or …show more content…
Generally, agreements can give cultural, philosophical, and spiritual insight into the view of those Aboriginal communities involved. Eleven historical treaties were signed from 1871-1921 covering much of Canada, except Newfoundland and
Labrador, Quebec, and British Columbia. To bring greater certainty to land use and ensure a clear definition of rights and responsibilities has been agreed upon, recent court decisions highly recommend that treaties be negotiated with Aboriginal communities and the government.
Presently, not all Aboriginal communities have either modern-day or historical agreements in place. Most of these communities are situated in British Columbia. For example, 60% of all First
Nations (or 116 communities) in the B.C. are not governed by a treaty. Often taking years for one agreement to be signed, negotiations with senior Aboriginal leaders and Crown representatives are ongoing.
Misconception: No one knew at the time about the conditions of residential schools
There is much evidence that the government and church worked together to hide the abuses of residential schools from the public eye. Their efforts failed. Canadians could read