Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Ainu or Utari?

'Ainu' is a world used to describe the Indigenous people of Japan. Ainu people are an ethnic minority within Japan.

In history class I was taught that 'Ainu' is a derogatory word. I was taught that the world 'Utari' is more respectful to use then the word 'Ainu'.

However, after discussing the words 'Ainu' and 'Utari' on the internet, I felt puzzled.
A Video Blogger had informed me that 'Ainu' is not a derogatory word. The Video Blogger said that 'Ainu' simply means human.

So, what should I say?
Which word can I use that will not disrespect a Japanese person who is Indigenous?