Contact a Librarian
Charles G. Ransom
Multicultural Studies Librarian
209 Hatcher North
Office Phone:734-764-7522
Email: ransomcg@umich.edu
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Overview
Over the years the terms used to describe people Indigenous to a certain area have changed. This section of the guide will provide you with resources on terminology for various Indigenous populations.
Terminology Resources
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TerminologyThe University of British Columbia's Indigenous Foundations page discusses terminology used within the context of Canada.
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The purpose of Words First: An Evolving Terminology Relating to Aboriginal Peoples in CanadaCreated by the Communications Branch Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.
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General Information Folio 5: Appropriate Terminology, Indigenous Australian PeoplesThis guide clarifies appropriate language use for the history, society, naming, culture and classifications of Indigenous Australian and Torres Strait Islander people/s
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Decolonizing JournalismReporting in Indigenous Communities talks about what terms to use in journalism.
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UMASS- Native American Indian Studies - A Note on NamesThis guide critically discusses the choice between Native American Studies and American Indian Studies.
Last Updated: Jun 25, 2025 2:35 PM