key terms Flashcards
Stereotype
An oversimplified generalization of a particular group of people. Stereotypes can be based on race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation or almost any characteristic. It can be positive but it is often negative. It does not take individual differences into account.
Prejudice
Preconceived beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and attitudes that someone holds about a group. Prejudice is not based on experience. It’s a pre made judgment, originating outside actual experience. By defining one category of people as superior, this results in prejudice of people who do not fall into the favoured category.
Discrimination
Consists of actions against a person or group of people. Discrimination can be based on age, religion, race, health, gender, sexuality, and other indicators. It involves restricting members of one group from opportunities or privileges that are available to members of another group.
Equity
Giving everyone what is appropriately needed for them
Equality
Giving everyone equal opportunity and treatment
Traditional Knowledge Holder / Keeper
The cultural customs and practices within First Nations, Metis, and Inuit groups are held by individuals who share and teach this information to other members in their community.
Elder
Elder is another word for a Traditional Knowledge Holder/Keeper. Elders are a cherished and highly respected group of people who offer guidance and support on a wide variety of matters for their community.
Territorial Acknowledgement
Acknowledging each other based on relationships with a specific community, Nation, or territory. A way for people to situate themselves and show respect to local Indigenous Peoples.
Tobacco
As a special gift many First Nations and some Metis groups often use tobacco for various purposes including ceremony trade, payment, and ceremonial medicine.
Smudging
is a cleansing of the mind, body, and spirit of negative energy and may be viewed as a way to “open the mind and spirit” This can be done by a qualified Indigenous person (most likely an Elder or Traditional Knowledge Holder”
Grandmother / Grandfather / Auntie / Uncle
These terms are often used in a literal sense but are also endearing kinship terms for Elders in some communities.
Indian
The term “Indian” because of its negative connotation should be avoided in most contexts unless it is used as part of a historical reference or used in reference to a government policy.
Native
this term is rarely used in a respectful manner and therefore should only be used for a specific reason such as referring to an Indian status or organization.
First Nations
Most but not all, reserve based communities in Canada refer to themselves as “First Nations”. The term can be applied to individuals, but technically refers only to those who have Indian status under Canadian law as part of a recognized community. Those who are Metis or Inuit should never be referred to as “First Nations”
Métis
Are a specific group in Canada with a very specific social history. Until very recently they have not been regarded as “Indians” under Canadian law and are never considered “First Nations” The term can be singular or plural.