WINS LIP IS grateful for the guidance shared by the Qayqayt First Nation in reviewing this content.
Honouring the Truth of Ancestral Territories
As you settle into your new home, it’s important to know that the land you now live on has been the ancestral home of Indigenous Peoples for thousands of years. For Indigenous Peoples, the land is alive. It is not something to own or control, but something to live with, care for, and be in relationship with. Their cultures, languages, and ways of life flow from this deep connection to the land—it shapes who they are and how they live.
WINS LIP invites everyone to learn about Indigenous histories, land, and reconciliation. We especially welcome newcomers and immigrants, who may not have had access to this knowledge before arriving in Canada.
This is a shared journey—and understanding the truth about indigenous history, helps us all build respectful relationships and a more inclusive future.
The Relevance
Many newcomers arrive in Canada without the colonial history context because their education, settlement programs, or prior experiences may not have included the history of Indigenous Peoples, treaties, or the impacts of colonization.
Colonization severed Indigenous Peoples’ relationships with the imposed society in many ways, including the creation of reserves, residential schools, displacement from their lands, and laws and policies that sought to erase their cultures and traditions.
Despite systemic oppression, Indigenous Peoples continue to nurture their lands, cultures, languages, and traditions. Some lands remain unceded, while others were affected by treaties often signed under pressure or misrepresentation. Today, these lands remain deeply connected to Indigenous Peoples
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) was created to document the history and impacts of residential schools on Indigenous Peoples. Its goal is to share the truth, educate Canadians, and guide actions toward healing and reconciliation.
The TRC issued 94 Calls to Action, which are practical steps for governments, organizations, and individuals to address past harms, respect Indigenous rights, and build a more just and inclusive Canada
Who Are Indigenous Peoples?
Indigenous Peoples are the original inhabitants of Canada and have lived on this land for thousands of years. They are diverse and vibrant, with many different cultures, languages, and traditions. Canada has classified them in 3 main groups in Canada:
- First Nations – Over 600 communities, each with its own history, culture, and language.
- Inuit – Indigenous peoples living mostly in the Arctic, with unique ways of life adapted to northern climates.
- Métis – People of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry who developed their own distinct culture, language, and identity.
There are hundreds of Indigenous languages, spiritual practices, governance systems, and cultural traditions. Indigenous Peoples are not a single group, but many nations with unique identities, histories, and contributions.
Turtle Island
Turtle Island is the Indigenous name for the land now called Canada.
Indigenous Peoples have lived here for over 10,000 years.
Turtle Island is the name many Indigenous Peoples use to describe the land now called North America, including Canada. The term comes from creation stories shared by several Indigenous Nations, especially among the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois), Anishinaabe, and Lenape.
What Happened with the Crown and Indigenous Land?
- In Canada, the Crown refers to the British Monarchy and later the Canadian Government.
- When treaties were signed, they were made between Indigenous Nations and the Crown—not with individual settlers.
- In British Columbia, most land was never part of a treaty, , meaning the Crown took control without agreement.
- This is why much of BC is called unceded territory—land that still rightfully belongs to Indigenous Peoples.
What Truth & Reconciliation Means for Newcomers?
– To cultivate relationships built on respect with Indigenous peoples.
– To learn the full history of the land, including treaties, past and ongoing effects of colonization, and the legacy of residential schools.
– To understand that treaties are legal agreements that affect everyone living here.
What Are Treaties?
Treaties are formal agreements between Indigenous Nations and the Crown (the British or Canadian government).
They were meant to share land and resources, not to give them away.
Treaties often promised things like education, healthcare, and protection—but many were broken or ignored.
What Can Newcomers Do?
- Learn about the Indigenous Nation whose land you live on.
- Attend Indigenous events and listen to stories.
- Support Indigenous businesses and artists.
- Get involved, become an Ally: newcomers can help build meaningful relationships and contribute to teconciliation.
For more Information, guidance, and ways to get involved, explore the resources below and connect with local indigenous organizations such Spirit of the Children Society (in New Westminster) cultural centres, and Elders for guidance and collaboration.
Nikola and Elijah are from the community of Cheam which is part of the Pilalt Tribe of Stó:lō Nation singing a song is called “Éy swayel, tel siyáye” in Halq’eméylem which means “Good day, my friends”
Resources to Explore
National Newcomer Collective for Truth and Reconciliation (NNCTR): https://www.nnctr.ca
Government of Canada – TRC Calls to Action: https://nctr.ca
Ask your settlement worker for guidance
Read the Indigenous Book Recommendations by Ernie Cardinal
A Cree Knowledge Keeper and Elder in Residence, Ernie’s Picks is a powerful collection of books that help readers understand Indigenous perspectives, colonization, reconciliation, and healing. Each recommendation is paired with Ernie’s personal reflections and storytelling
“I hope these books touch you and teach you as much as they did me.”
— Ernie Cardinal, B.A. CYC
Click here for Ernie’s Picks
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Resources
Truth and Calls to Action Relevant to Our work
| TRC Call # | Brief Explanation |
|---|---|
| #93 | Include Indigenous history and Treaties in newcomer education and citizenship materials. |
| #94 | Ensure newcomers understand the history and legacy of Indigenous Peoples. |
| #57–#61 | Promote education about Indigenous culture and contributions in community programs. |
| #92 | Educate public servants and professionals about Indigenous histories. |
| #45–#47 | Encourage community engagement with Indigenous Peoples. |
Key Commitments for WINS LIP under National Calls to Action
- Inclusive Settlement Materials
We commit to ensuring newcomers receive orientation materials and programs that include Indigenous histories, treaty relationships, and contemporary Indigenous realities. (TRC Call #93) - Civic Participation and Oaths
We support efforts to make citizenship and civic participation more meaningful by acknowledging Treaty responsibilities in ceremonies, oaths, and public engagements. (TRC Call #94) - Partnership & Cultural Guidance
We will partner with Indigenous organizations, Elders, and knowledge keepers to inform how our programs are designed and delivered. - Education & Public Resources
We will produce or host resources (guides, workshops, cultural introductions) that help newcomers understand Indigenous Peoples’ cultures, perspectives, languages, and rights. - Safe Spaces & Dialogue
We will facilitate events, storytelling, and dialogue circles where Indigenous and newcomer communities can meet, learn from each other, share histories, and build solidarity.
Glossary, understanding new terms
Understanding Terminology with Care
This glossary includes terms that are still used in Canadian law, policy, and history, such as “Indian” and “Aboriginal”. While these words are outdated or sound harsh to some, they continue to appear in official documents like the Indian Act and in legal definitions such as Indian Status. It is important to understand their meaning and context, especially when working with government systems or historical records.
Many Indigenous Peoples prefer terms like First Nations, Inuit, Métis, or Indigenous, which better reflect their identities, cultures, and self-determination. Using respectful and current language is part of building understanding and supporting reconciliation.
This glossary aims to help newcomers and community members learn about Indigenous histories, rights, and cultures in Canada, while recognizing the importance of language in shaping relationships.
Aboriginal (adj) As per above , we recommend the use of the term Indigenous instead of Aboriginal.
Indigenous refers to the first peoples who have lived in a place or country from the earliest times or before colonists. In Canada, this term includes three distinct groups: First Nations, Métis, and Inuit.
Ancestral Territory Land that has been occupied and cared for by Indigenous Peoples for generations, often overlapping with ‘traditional territory’.
Assimilate / Assimilation When people become part of another group by adopting its culture, often losing their own.
Band / Indian Band A group of status First Nations people defined by the Canadian Government. Each band has an elected council and chief.
Calls to Action Recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to guide reconciliation efforts with Indigenous Peoples.
Chief The leader of a First Nation or band. May be elected under the Indian Act or recognized in a traditional system.
Colonization When settlers took control of Indigenous land, governance, and resources, often through violence, laws, and forced assimilation.
Constitution In Canada, the highest law, first written in 1867.
Crown
The British monarchy and later the Canadian government, which claimed authority over Indigenous lands and signed treaties.
Cultural Revitalization
Efforts to restore Indigenous languages, traditions, and cultural practices suppressed by colonization.
Decolonization The process of undoing colonial systems and restoring Indigenous ways of knowing, governing, and living.
Doctrine of Discovery A historical legal concept used by European powers to justify taking Indigenous lands.
Elder A respected Indigenous person recognized for wisdom, experience, and cultural knowledge.
First Nation A group of First Peoples in Canada united by language and culture, not identifying as Inuit or Métis.
First Peoples Another term similar to First Nations, referring to Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
Heritage / Indigenous Knowledge Traditional stories, teachings, and ways of life passed down through generations.
Indian / Indian Status A legal identity defined by the Canadian government under the Indian Act. Should only be used as a legal term.
Indian Act Federal legislation that governs First Nations people with ‘Indian status’.
Indian Residential School Government- and church-run schools where Indigenous children were forced to abandon their languages and cultures.
Indigenous Sovereignty The inherent right of Indigenous Nations to govern themselves and make decisions about their people, land, and resources.
Intergenerational Trauma The lasting impact of historical injustices passed down through generations.
Inuit Indigenous Peoples who live in the Arctic regions of Canada.
Kinship A system of relationships and responsibilities among family and community members.
Land Back (n.) A movement led by Indigenous Peoples to restore their relationship with the land. It means returning control of traditional territories to Indigenous communities so they can care for the land, make decisions about it, and live according to their own laws and values. Land Back also calls for justice, healing, and recognition of Indigenous rights after generations of land being taken without consent.
Land Claim A First Nation’s legal demand for control over their traditional territory.
Marginalization Being pushed to the edges of society and denied full participation.
Medicine Wheel A symbol and teaching tool representing balance and interconnectedness in life.
Métis People of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry with their own culture, language, and history.
Nation-to-Nation Relationship A respectful political relationship between Indigenous Nations and the Canadian government.
Orange Shirt Day A day of remembrance for survivors of residential schools, held on September 30.
Potlatch A formal ceremony used by First Nations on the northwest coast for education, celebration, and governance.
Pow Wow A cultural gathering with dancing, singing, drumming, and celebration of Indigenous identity. (not practiced in teh past in British Columbia)
Protocol A system of rules about correct behavior on official occasions.
Reconciliation The process of repairing relationships and addressing harms caused by colonization.
Reserve / Reservation Land set aside by the government for First Nations communities.
Residential Schools Institutions where Indigenous children were taken from families and forced to abandon their cultures.
Sacred Sites Places of spiritual and cultural importance to Indigenous Peoples.
Self-determination The right of a people to govern themselves and choose their government.
Settler Colonialism A form of colonization where settlers permanently occupy and control Indigenous lands.
Seven Sacred Teachings Core Indigenous values: Wisdom, Love, Respect, Bravery, Honesty, Humility, and Truth.
Smudging / Sacred Medicine A ceremonial practice using smoke from sacred plants to cleanse and purify.
Storytelling A traditional way of teaching and sharing knowledge through oral stories.
Systemic Oppression Discrimination and inequality built into laws, policies, and institutions.
Time Immemorial The beginning; a time before memory or record.
Tradition / Traditional Ways of doing things passed down through generations.
Traditional Territory Land that a First Nation has lived on or used since time immemorial.
Treaty A formal agreement between Indigenous Nations and the Crown about land and rights.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission A national commission that collected stories from residential school survivors and issued 94 Calls to Action.
Turtle Island The name many Indigenous Peoples use for North America, based on creation stories.
Two-Spirit A term used by some Indigenous Peoples to describe gender-diverse identities.
Unceded Land Land that Indigenous Peoples never gave up or signed over.
Urban Aboriginal People First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples who live in cities.
Urban Indigenous Organizations Community-based groups that support Indigenous Peoples living in cities.
Wet’suwet’en An example of a hereditary governance system in BC central to land rights discussions.