The term “distinctions-based” generally refers to an approach or perspective that emphasizes recognizing and understanding differences or unique characteristics among entities, concepts, or situations. It involves focusing on the distinctions that set things apart rather than treating them as uniform or similar. For example, a distinctions-based approach aims to avoid conflating Indigenous Peoples within Canada, and instead recognizes First Nations, Inuit and Métis as separate groups, each with their own diverse cultures, traditions, communities and histories.