The term "First Nations" refers to the original inhabitants of the land now known as Canada, who have a distinct history, culture, language, and identity. This term honors the deep resilience of these communities and recognizes the complex dynamics of their relationships with the colonial power. As descendants of societies that were engaged in trading and diplomatic relations long before the colonization of the United States and Canada, First Nations embody values of sovereignty, integrity, reciprocity, and respect from which non-indigenous Canadians can learn and be in awe.

See also: native people, mother earth, social change, indigenous peoples, indigenous movements