Indigenous Peoples of Canada

Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of Canada, and their cultures, histories, and contributions are central to understanding this country. As a newcomer, learning about Indigenous peoples — their past, their present challenges, and their vibrant cultures — is an important part of becoming an informed and respectful member of Canadian society.

Canada officially recognizes three groups of Indigenous peoples: First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. Together, they number over 1.8 million people and represent hundreds of distinct nations, languages, and traditions. First Nations peoples are the largest group and include nations across every region of Canada. The Métis are a distinct people with both European and Indigenous ancestry, primarily descended from early relationships between French traders and First Nations women. The Inuit are the Indigenous peoples of the Arctic regions of Canada, Greenland, Alaska, and Russia.

Canada's history with Indigenous peoples includes significant harm, most notably through the residential school system that operated from the 1870s to 1996. Children were removed from their families and forbidden from speaking their languages or practicing their cultures. Thousands of children died in these schools, and their remains have been discovered at former school sites across the country. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada documented this history and issued 94 Calls to Action — recommendations for how governments, institutions, and individuals can work toward healing.

Today, many Indigenous communities are working hard to preserve and revitalize their languages and cultures, assert their land rights, and build stronger economies. Indigenous arts — including beadwork, carving, weaving, storytelling, and music — are incredibly rich and are gaining increasing recognition. Canada's 94 Calls to Action guide efforts toward reconciliation, and many cities mark September 30th as Orange Shirt Day (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation), a day to reflect and remember.