Glossary of Aboriginal Terms

Aboriginal  - “Aboriginal” refers to the original indigenous or “first peoples” of Canada and their descendants. The term is used in the same way as the terms 'Native Americans'  and 'American Indians' are used to denote indigenous peoples in the United State.  On occasion, we use the term 'Native Canadian' to also refer to an Aboriginal person in Canada.

Aboriginal peoples in Canada  - Within Canada, there are three groups of Aboriginal peoples — Indians, Métis and Inuit. These are three separate peoples with unique history, heritages, languages, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.

Anishnaabe – refers to the Ojibwe, Odawa and Pottawatomi tribes who inhabit the Great Lakes region which includes Manitoulin Island and the Sagamok Region.  Its literal translation means “the good beings” and is the term in use by these tribes to identify themselves and their members.

Anishinabek – refers to the three inter-related tribes of the Ojibwe, Odawa and Pottawotomi people that inhabit our region.  The term Anishinaabe is the singular form of the plural Anishinabek.

Bannock – the traditional bread of our region also referred to as scone (which can be a fried scone or oven-baked scone) or frybread (which as the name implies is fried to golden brown).  Refer to Dining and Cuisine for a recipe for Bannock.

First Nations – in recognition of their important place in the development of Canada, communities of Aboriginal people who share the same geographic, political or cultural and linguistic lines are referred to as First Nations.   This term replaces older terminology such as “bands of Indians” and “Indian reservations”

Grand Entry – the ceremonial procession of flags, war veterans, elders and dancers which signifies the beginning of the powwow

Powwow  - the traditional gathering of our people and tribes involving singing, drumming, dancing, craftwork, trading and food!

(Porcupine) Quills – a porcupine is a small mammal which inhabits the woodland areas of the Great Lakes.  It’s primary mechanism of defense against natural predators are quills which cover its body.  Amongst the Anishnaabe, the quills are prized materials used in making porcupine quill baskets and other craft items.

Regalia – regalia is the appropriate term to use for the dance clothing and ornamentation that Aboriginal people wear when they dance.  We prefer not to call these “costumes” as this would imply that we are not being ourselves when we are dancing in “costumes”.  Rather we are wearing our finest “outfits” and thus the term “regalia” is more appropriate. 

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