Episode 1: What Do You Call Us? | Indigeneity Learning Media

Ariel and Julian answer the question, “What do you call us?” in this episode of Indigeneity. Many people are confused about how to refer to the descendants of the original inhabitants of North America. This episode clears up the confusion, identifies misnomers, explains the origins of the terms “Indian” and “Eskimo,” and offers practical tips for determining the right terminology when referring to Indigenous Peoples.

White people often ask People of Color, “Where are you from?” This question presumes that People of Color are not United States citizens, and that they don’t belong. This question can be especially frustrating for Indigenous Peoples, since our ancestors originated in North America prior to settler colonization. It’s important for all people living in the United States to know that Indigenous Peoples were here first, we are still here, and that all Americans live in a settler colonial nation. When learning about Indigenous Peoples and meeting Indigenous Peoples, a good place to start is to ask, “What do you like to be called?”