Words First is a sort of style sheet for the use of words pertaining to Aboriginal peoples in Canada. It is a good resource for anyone who plans to write or learn about the First Nations in that it provides guidelines for the appropriate usage of terminology. For example, do not say “Canada’s Aboriginal people” as this implies ownership. It is preferable to use the neutral phrase “Aboriginal people in Canada”.
It should be noted that this document is published by the Communications Branch at Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and it does not make reference to being endorsed by any First Nations. That being said, I would think that this document will prove helpful when it comes to my research project as well as any writing in this course.
~Dan