- Definition
The word "Indian" is an outdated and often offensive term for Indigenous people in Canada, though it is still used in the legal document called the Indian Act. It's much better to use "First Nation" instead.
The government of Canada created the Indian Act, which uses this specific legal term to define who has Indian Status.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: This word is like an old nickname someone doesn't like anymore; it's more respectful to use the name they choose for themselves.
Ask your child: How does it feel when someone calls you the right name?
Common mix-up: Kids might think 'Indian' is the correct name for Indigenous peoples in Canada. This term is outdated and can be hurtful; it's better to use specific names like 'First Nation' or 'Indigenous'.
Examples
- Early European explorers mistakenly used this word because they thought they had landed in India.
- Instead of saying 'Indian art,' it is more respectful to say 'First Nations art' or 'Indigenous art'.
- You might see the term in historical documents, but it is not the word we choose to use today.
Indian is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
- Grade 2 The Arts
- Grade 3 The Arts
- Grade 4 The Arts
- Grade 5 Social Studies / History / Geography
- Grade 6 Social Studies / History / Geography
+9 more mentions across the curriculum
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
