From "Indien" to "Autochtone" : how Québec First Nations are changing their denominations
What is it about?
In the last few years, First Nations in Québec and French-speaking Canada are asking that we replace the general denominations "Indiens" and "Amérindiens" with "Premières Nations" and "Autochtones". "Indiens" and "Amérindiens" are rejected because they were given by people who are exterior to the group, the colonizers. The change of denominations is an empowerment process on the part of the Indegenous peoples of Canada.
Why is it important?
This renaming phenomenon is taking place in many regions of the world, though the mecanisms are not always the same - some South American peoples are reclaiming "Indian". It is important to understand the various means by which these changes occur around the world. In Canada, this renaming is embraced at all levels - including in the governement, as part of the Reconciliation with First Nations of Canada. This study allows to understand why the change is taking place, and why there sometimes is resistance to it.