The Indian Act brought about major social changes for Aboriginal people, particularly women.
The desire to wipe out Aboriginal cultures and languages affected all First Nations and Inuit people. Traditions were forgotten, languages almost died out because no one spoke them. Residential schools where Aboriginal children were sent prohibited speaking the language, wearing traditional clothing, and even having contact with family and community for a long time. As a result, women could not fulfill part of their social role, which was to pass down handicraft techniques, home and cooking rituals, language and stories.
The Indian Act also required Aboriginal women who married a non-Aboriginal person to leave the reserve, thereby losing their status and contact with their culture and community. Their children also suffered these consequences.
Today, women struggle to regain the right to play their role of passing down traditions and knowledge once again.