AIAN (U.S. Census)

AIAN is an acronym used by the United States Census Bureau to refer to the American Indian and Alaska Native population. This designation encompasses individuals who identify as having origins in any of the original peoples of North and South America (including Central America) and who maintain tribal affiliation or community attachment.

The AIAN category is used for statistical purposes in data collection, analysis, and reporting. Individuals reporting AIAN ancestry are typically asked to specify their tribe(s). The Census Bureau recognizes hundreds of federally recognized and state-recognized tribes.

The term is often used in government documents, reports, and statistical summaries related to demographics, health, education, employment, and other socio-economic indicators. It is important to note that the use of the term "AIAN" is primarily for statistical and governmental purposes and may not be universally preferred or accepted by all individuals within the American Indian and Alaska Native community. Some may prefer to be identified by their specific tribal affiliation rather than the collective term.

Data collected on the AIAN population is used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources, and address the needs of American Indian and Alaska Native communities across the United States. The Census Bureau also conducts tribal consultations to ensure accurate and culturally appropriate data collection methods are used within AIAN populations.