As of 2021, there are 52,430 Indigenous people living in Nova Scotia. This figure represents a significant portion of the province's diversity and cultural heritage.
Understanding Indigenous Population in Nova Scotia
The term "Indigenous people" encompasses First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals. In the context of Nova Scotia, the population of 52,430 Indigenous residents highlights the strong presence and vibrant communities throughout the province.
Key Statistics:
| Category | Number (2021) | Percentage | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indigenous People in Nova Scotia | 52,430 | Approximately 5.5% of Nova Scotia's population | Nova Scotia holds the second-highest Indigenous population within Atlantic Canada. |
| Indigenous People Across Canada | 1.8 million | Approximately 5% of the Canadian population | This provides a national context for Indigenous populations. |
Contextualizing the Population
Nova Scotia's Indigenous population is a vital part of the province's social and cultural fabric. The 2021 data indicates that roughly 5.5% of Nova Scotia's total population identifies as Indigenous, making it a province with a notable Indigenous presence in Atlantic Canada. This demographic distribution underscores the historical and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples to the region.
Nationally, the Indigenous population in Canada reached 1.8 million people in 2021, representing about 5% of the total Canadian population. This broader context helps to frame Nova Scotia's specific figures within the national landscape of Indigenous communities. The concentration of Indigenous people in Nova Scotia, being the second highest in Atlantic Canada, further emphasizes its importance for regional Indigenous affairs and development.
