Alaska Native refers to people who have owned and occupied the land of Alaska for tens of thousands of years. They comprise of various indigenous groups, each with their distinct culture and language. Other commonly used synonyms for Alaska Native are Indigenous Alaskans, Native Alaskans, Alaska Natives, and Natives. Some prefer regional descriptors, such as Inupiaq, Yup'ik, Athabascan, Tlingit, Haida, or Aleut. In some cases, the term Eskimo is also used, though it is deemed offensive by some. Whichever terminology is used, it is essential to recognize and honor the unique culture of those peoples and the contributions they have made and continue to make to Alaska.