The terms Aboriginal, Indigenous, and Native are often used interchangeably; however, certain terms may be applied within specific contexts. In the context of constitutional rights, the term Aboriginal is appropriate. However, the term “Indigenous” has increasingly replaced the term “Aboriginal” since 2016, as the former is recognized internationally, for instance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

 

AYC was founded in 2013 which is the year before the Government of Canada uses the term “Indigenous” broadly. The name “AYC” has been used for over 10 years now and is known to many indigenous people for youth ministry. Our Indigenous leaders also do not have concerns about keeping the name “AYC” as well.

 

Many organizations that were founded before 2016 still keep their name “Aboriginal”, i.e., “Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society”, “Aboriginal Mother Centre Society”, and “Vancouver Aboriginal Child & Family Services Society” etc.

 

Even some organizations or proper nouns made before the 80s are still using the term Indian, i.e., Indian Ministry in Manitoba, Indian Taco, even though this is now considered an inappropriate term

 

AYC respects using the term “Indigenous” and we will use this term in all official documents and conversations, even though our name remains as “Aboriginal Youth Community”

 

Related article: https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/indian-term