Be prepared to deal with the potential for conflict arising from the lively discussion of contemporary issues. Acknowledge diverse perspectives by planning for appropriate means to hold discussions airing all sides of an issue. There is tremendous diversity in the identity of Aboriginal peoples. Specific terms may be used in describing a group of people. For Aboriginal peoples in Canada these terms have legal and social significance.
Aboriginal peoples have the right to define themselves, although legal criteria exist.
Other criteria are based on political and cultural factors. In the late 1800s, mixed-blood people could be recognized as Indians and receive benefits, if Indians agreed. In 1876, the Indian Act established a list of all status Indians based on government criteria. This Act resulted in the creation of the non-status Indian. In 1951, the Indian Act description of Indian paid no attention to culture and race in determining a definition.