23 Recognizing the Diversity of Indigenous Peoples in Canada (3.1.4)
Verna Johnson
Canada is known for its multicultural values, which are supported by the Canadian Multiculturalism Act of 1988. Many Canadians take pride in this cultural diversity. However, one common and incorrect assumption that Indigenous Peoples are one unified group. Indigenous communities across Canada are highly diverse, with unique histories, languages, traditions, and systems of governance (Live & Learn, n.d.; ICT Inc., n.d.).
Not a Homogeneous Group
The Constitution Act (1982) recognizes three distinct groups of Indigenous Peoples: First Nations, Métis, and Inuit (Government of Canada, 2019). Each group—and each community within these groups—has its own culture, language, and identity. For example, there are over 600 First Nations communities (bands) across Canada, covering more than 2,000 reserves (ICT Inc., n.d.). These communities differ in political structures, economies, cultural practices, and local challenges (Live & Learn, n.d.).
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity
British Columbia alone is home to more than 200 First Nations communities, representing approximately 60% of all Indigenous languages spoken in Canada (ICT Inc., n.d.). Nationally, there are over 70 Indigenous languages, many of which are considered endangered. According to Statistics Canada (2022), more than 237,000 people reported being able to speak an Indigenous language, but many of these languages are at risk of disappearing, with UNESCO classifying them all as endangered.
Language plays a vital role in maintaining cultural identity, and the loss of Indigenous languages can lead to a loss of traditional knowledge, stories, and community connections (Statistics Canada, 2022). This highlights the importance of efforts to support and revitalize Indigenous languages across Canada.
Why This Matters in the Workplace
Professionals engaging with Indigenous communities should avoid generalizing or assuming cultural sameness. Each community has its own protocols, values, and concerns. Taking time to understand the specific cultural context of each community is a sign of respect—and a key to building genuine, informed, and ethical relationships (ICT Inc., n.d.).
Recognizing the diversity among Indigenous Peoples also helps challenge stereotypes, improve communication, and contribute to reconciliation in business, education, and public service contexts (Live & Learn, n.d.).
Exercise
Think of a time when someone made assumptions about your background or identity. How did it feel? How might you avoid making similar assumptions when working with Indigenous communities?
Engaging Respectfully
To respectfully engage with Indigenous communities, it is essential to understand that their cultures are diverse, complex, and grounded in distinct local histories. Treating Indigenous Peoples as one homogenous group overlooks this rich variety and may lead to oversimplified assumptions. Genuine respect means recognizing and valuing the differences between Indigenous communities and working to build meaningful, informed relationships.
References
References are at the end of this chapter.
