Spring 2014 - The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples

Spring 2014
Grassroots Engagement 2013-14
By: Sean Kerr
For the fiscal year 2013-14, the Congress of Aboriginal
Peoples (CAP, Congress) embarked on a cross-country
Grassroots Engagement tour to meet with off-reserve
Aboriginal Peoples in order to hear first-hand about the issues
affecting the Congress’ constituency. The National Chief
met with grassroots Aboriginal Peoples in each province and
territory, with the exception of Nunavut, to introduce the
Congress and to learn about what issues might be important
for CAP to take on
at the national level
when developing
policies, projects and
programs.
At each session,
National Chief,
Betty Ann Lavallée,
presented on the work
that the Congress
does on behalf of the
rights and interests of
status and non-status
Indians, Southern
Inuit of Labrador
and Métis Peoples
living in urban,
rural and remote
areas throughout
Canada before opening the floor up to discussion. Attendees
were assured anonymity to encourage open dialogue and
uninhibited expression of the issues that they are facing.
Contents
CAP OFFICIAL BUSINESS..............................4
Year End Message from the Chief.............4
Daniels v. Canada: Where Do We
Go From Here? ...............................................5
2013 Annual General Assembly.................7
AAWG Interim Status Update Meeting.. 10
CAP AND COMMUNITY.............................. 12
Awegonen ke-Mìdjiyeng Onàgoshig?
(What’s for Supper?)................................... 12
New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples
Council............................................................ 13
Funding for this initiative came through the Bilateral
funding stream via the Métis and Non-Status Indians
Relations (MNSIR) branch of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern
Development Canada (AANDC). The project saw the Congress
hold sessions in Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince
Edward Island; Fredericton, New Brunswick; Vancouver,
British Columbia;
Yellowknife,
“I’ve been rejuvenated and
Northwest
am reminded of why I took on
Territories;
this job by way of this tour.
Whitehorse,
I have re-learned what I am
Yukon; Edmonton,
doing this all for. It gets easy
Alberta; Regina,
to forget after you get bogged
Saskatchewan;
down dealing with things in
Winnipeg,
Ottawa so much.”
Manitoba; St. Louis
National Chief
du Ha! Ha!, Quebec;
and Sudbury,
Ontario.
Since 1971, the
Congress of Aboriginal
Peoples – formerly
known as the Native
Council of Canada –
has represented and
advocated for the
rights and interests
of off-reserve status
and non-status Indians, Southern Inuit of Labrador and Métis
Peoples throughout Canada. The Congress is also the national
voice for its Provincial Territorial Organization (PTO) affiliates
New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples
Council (NBAPC) Elects New Leaders.... 13
Success Stories............................................. 14
Celebrating Three Exemplary
Young Women.............................................. 14
Melanie-Rose Frappier............................... 15
Shannon Lee Bear........................................ 15
Zondra “Zoey” Roy...................................... 16
Success Stories............................................. 17
NATIONAL YOUTH COUNCIL..................... 17
National Youth Council Update.............. 17
Anti-Bullying Strategy Roll-Out............. 19
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throughout Canada that advocate and provide services on
behalf of all Aboriginal Peoples living off-reserve.
The attendees at each of the Grassroots sessions expressed
a sense of hope and gratitude that they were being greeted
and listened to by the National leader of the Congress of
Aboriginal Peoples. CAP’s presence was seen as a positive
step forward in giving a voice to the grassroots off-reserve
Aboriginal Peoples. There was a call in each province and
territory to see more of these sessions held in other areas
where they know that their families would appreciate the
opportunity to voice their
concerns and ideas.
“I would like to see more CAP
people go to rural communities
where they need you. Our
people elected you as council
to represent us and see all the
issues first hand,” said a man in
the Northwest Territories.
An Elder in Saskatchewan
spoke about the importance of
having a national organization
and of having an affiliate in the province, saying that,
“These people are our federal voice. If we went to
parliament hill, screaming and yodeling, nobody would hear
us. We have to come to a federal organization to say ‘this is
our small voice that trickles up through the channels that
may reach the top.’ We have to use that opportunity.”
The major issues that were raised at the sessions centered
on health, education, housing, racism, addictions, identity,
employment, the need to teach Aboriginal history to all
Canadians, lack of programming and support for Elders and
veterans, murder and suicide rates, justice issues (too many
Aboriginal Peoples in jails), not enough support for people
after they are released from prisons or treatment centres,
child and adoption services, loss of identity and the need to
work together as Aboriginal Peoples.
One of the major issues with education that the Congress
found, in each province and territory, was the fast-tracking
system that is in place. Parents and students are concerned
that teachers are not allowed to fail students who are not
prepared to move ahead. “The education system is failing
students because they are not held back when they should
be,” expressed many attendees. Children are being passed
despite the fact that they cannot read or write. It is felt
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that this is not preparing the kids
for future success but rather it is
setting them up for failure because
after high school, they can be
failed out of college and university
and can eventually be fired from
their jobs.
“We need to educate people about our off-reserve history.
We need to teach pride in our culture. Teach the pain. We
should teach people about the 60s scoop and the other
issues that people don’t know about. We have a lot of
people who turned to drugs and alcohol. People don’t know
who they are. It’s an identity issue. Especially for people
who live off-reserve. I didn’t know who I was until I was
28 years old,” a woman in New Brunswick said, addressing
the need to educate Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Peoples
about the history of the Native Peoples of Canada.
With the Federal Court of Appeal’s impending ruling on
the appeal of the Daniels decision looming, many felt
that there should be an interim strategy for dealing with
Aboriginal Peoples while the decision is being processed.
It was suggested that in the interim, under Section
92, the province should be responsible for education,
and the Federal Government should be responsible for
economic development under section 91. A call for further
engagement between CAP and its off-reserve constituents
on the Daniels case was raised in every province and
territory.
In every place that the Congress visited, an urgent need
for housing programs and support was expressed. Many
ideas and potential programs were tabled, including one
described in Winnipeg called Standing Trees for Standing
Home, “I’ve been trying to get a program started where we
would build houses for people. The program targets young
native men after they get out of high school to build their
own houses. A lady developed the program of how to get EI to
pay for the wages of the men. It is a five-person crew where
one of the five people is a home owner. We don’t have land,
so this is difficult. A four bedroom house (bi-level) is $48,000
for the materials. We were going to cut that down more, but
the lack of funding is too difficult.”
Celebrate their education and learning.” He added that, “I am
happy that National Chief Lavallée is here to share her vision
for the people in the cities. Our people are struggling there.
They’re dying in the streets.”
CAP is interested in becoming self-supporting. It is a goal of
the organization to look into developing a legal defense fund
separate of government funding. The Congress’ Vice- Chief,
Ron Swain, expressed that, “We want to be accountable
financially. That is why we are so strict with our affiliates. We
want there to be trust that we can manage our own money.
We have kicked affiliates out for not being accountable or
fiscally responsible with their money. We want our people to
eventually trust to invest and donate money to us that we will
use that money to take on the issues.”
In all provinces, there was an expressed need for more training
and skills development programs that lead to meaningful
employment rather than menial and labour jobs. Aboriginal
Peoples want to be included in and contribute to the
Canadian economy and are calling out for the opportunity to
participate.
The Congress came across a lot of support for the National
Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Aboriginal Women and
Girls as well as some who are against the inquiry. An Elder
woman in Winnipeg noted that, “We understand and know
why our women are being murdered. This funding needs
to be distributed to our women at the community level
to help them heal. We need healing. We
In Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, a
don’t need to be researched. We’re tired
significant lack in housing and support for
“Not for a second do I
of being researched as women. We know
those seeking housing was cited. A 40-yearbegrudge my brothers and
where we stand, and we know our identity.
old man explained his circumstances, saying,
sisters on-reserve for the
The money needs to be distributed to our
“I’ve been waiting for two years for housing.
money they receive. This
Native Women’s organizations and healing
I get disability of $650/month... I’m turned
money comes from our
programs.”
down by Northern Properties because I don’t
resources and land; however,
have enough income. If income support is
not enough is being filtered
The tragic loss of community member Loretta
going to pay for my rent, I can cover the rest
toward off-reserve Aboriginal
Saunders was fresh in the minds of the
with my disability pension.”
Peoples,” said the National
attendees at the Happy Valley-Goose Bay,
Chief, regarding the funding
Labrador, Grassroots Engagement Session as
A young man in Saskatchewan thanked the
inequities between on- and
it was held only a few days after. An Elder
Congress for coming out. He expressed that,
off-reserve.
addressed the room, stating that, “If this
as a leader, the Chief is going to have to find
was in the general population, it would be
a way of self-sustaining. “I’m willing to be
18,000 women and girls who would have
taxed for that. I’m willing to volunteer time as
gone missing. That’s the percentage and what it means to the
a young person. I’m willing to partner with CAP to get things
Aboriginal community. It is astounding. There needs to be an
done. I want to see CAP have its voice again and that can
inquiry into this.”
happen when you become self-sustaining,” he asserted.
Furthering the need for Aboriginal Peoples to let go of the
prejudices and work together, at many of the sessions, Chiefs
of the surrounding reserves attended and commented. Chief
Tony Alexis in Alberta addressed the room at Poundmaker’s
Lodge in Edmonton, saying that, “If we encourage our
children to be healthy students, they will be the leaders
and the people who run our country. Support our children.
A final report has been compiled and will be made available
via the Congress’ website, Facebook page and Twitter
accounts. Copies of the report will be distributed to the
Aboriginal Affairs Working Group and the Council of the
Federation.
The Congress will be able to use these issues that were
collected in the development of policies, projects and
programs in order to answer the calls from its grassroots
constituents.
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CAP Official Business
Year End Message from the Chief
By: National Chief, Betty Ann Lavallée, CD, (Ret’d)
As we end one fiscal year and begin another, I would like to
take this opportunity to provide an update on the work that
the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples has been doing on behalf
of the off-reserve Aboriginal Peoples of Canada. Looking
back is a good way to measure our progress and to plan for
what we expect to be a very exciting yet challenging road
ahead.
Let me begin by briefly explaining what to expect in the near
future with respect to our ongoing court challenge brought
forward in 1991 by the late Harry Daniels and the Congress.
As most of you already know, on January, 8, 2013, the Federal
Court of Canada ruled in our favour by granting long overdue
recognition to the Métis and non-Status Indians under
Section 91(24) of the Constitution, 1867.
While we all celebrated the outcome, the federal government’s
appeal was not a surprise to us, given the countless times
that federal litigators tried to delay or derail this case. So
once again, we defended our victory at the Federal Court of
Appeals in October, 2013. Today, as we await a decision, I want
to address a number of issues that we are focusing on that
affect the daily lives of the off-reserve Aboriginal Peoples.
Looking ahead, our work is cut out for us as we look for new
and creative ways in which to adapt to an ever-changing
fiscal and political environment. We have intensified our
efforts to ensure that senior government officials, including
the Prime Minister, the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and
Northern Development Canada, and provincial and territorial
leaders, understand the fundamental issues affecting the offreserve Aboriginal Peoples in Canada, who now surpass 75%
of the total Aboriginal population.
On this subject alone, we must ensure that government
officials understand the significant policy implications when
a large majority of Aboriginal Peoples live off-reserve. These
changing demographics demand that policy and program
officials seriously consider what this means when developing
new policy, program, and services targeted to off-reserve
Aboriginal Peoples.
I have always maintained that with the growing number of
Aboriginal Peoples moving into urban and rural regions of
4
Canada, we must begin a
serious dialogue about the
constitutionally protected
right to live where you
want to live without losing
your Aboriginal and treaty
rights. Mobility rights of
Aboriginal Peoples needs
to be addressed to answer
this fundamental question;
National Chief, Betty Ann
what responsibilities does the
Lavallée, CD, (Ret’d)
Government of Canada have
when Aboriginal People decide to live off-reserve?
On the subject of safe and affordable housing, our efforts to
make this a priority were successful when I raised it at the
Council of Federation meetings, and again at the Aboriginal
Affairs Working Group (AAWG) meeting in Winnipeg. I am
pleased to report that all provincial and territorial Ministers
at the AAWG agreed with me when I called on them to make
safe and affordable housing a national priority. This call to
action resulted in the creation of a stand-alone housing
committee which the Congress now co-chairs.
As I reported to you last year, we have progressed even further
as a National Aboriginal Organization that is accountable,
transparent, and forward looking. Our financial status has
improved so much, that our accountability rating with the
government has been upgraded to excellent. This progress
has been noticed at the highest levels of government and is a
result of the leadership, tireless efforts and dedication of our
CEO, Jim Devoe, and all the staff who worked as a team to
make this goal become a reality.
Yet, this accomplishment has not come without its challenges.
As we faced shrinking budgets this year, we were compelled
to reduce our staff – and this is never easy. We also expect
that ongoing budget constraints could have a major effect
on how the Congress operates over the next several years;
however, we are hopeful to regain some lost funding through
several important program initiatives and policy proposal
development work undertaken by our Policy team.
It goes without saying that much of the important work
by our staff often goes underreported. Let me share a few
examples. Our Strategic Partnership and ASETS teams are
working together to develop new partnership initiatives with
industry, government and non-governmental organizations to
increase off-reserve Aboriginal Peoples participation into the
economy. These ongoing efforts are vitally important when
you consider that over 400,000 Aboriginal youth are expected
to enter the labour market over the next 15 years.
Our National Youth Council (NYC) has also been active in the
development of the Anti-Bullying Strategy, Aboriginal Youth
Achievement Awards, Find Your Voice Initiative and their
active participation in the kickoff of the 4Rs Summit held in
Edmonton.
I am also pleased to report on the tremendous reception
received during our Grassroots Engagement Tour sessions
that were held throughout the country. Not only did we
learn about what is really going on at the community level;
the Congress received numerous requests to hold additional
sessions in other communities. An added benefit was the
significant news coverage we received on the Tour and the
number of requests by Aboriginal groups to form new Affiliate
organizations in provinces and territories including the Yukon,
NWT, Manitoba and Alberta.
An important element of our overall approach is to continue
to increase and enhance our public profile to ensure that
our activities and issues are heard by decision makers. These
efforts have intensified, and I am pleased with the progress
that we have made to raise the level of awareness of the
Congress through the use of various communications and
outreach strategies.
This report only touches on some of the outstanding work
underway which often goes largely unnoticed. We do expect
that these efforts will yield significant results in the future.
Furthermore, I want to thank our Board members for
their support, dedication and commitment. Without their
cooperation and insight, the challenges and struggles that lie
ahead would be much more demanding.
Together, working as a team, I am confident that a prosperous
future lies ahead for each and every one of us. Please feel
free to contact me with your ideas and concerns, as we
work together to improve the lives of off-reserve Aboriginal
Peoples, both young and old throughout Canada.
I thank you for your ongoing support.
Daniels v. Canada: Where Do We Go From Here?
By: Betty Ann Lavallée, CD, (Ret’d) National Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples
I would like to provide an update and further insight into the
historic ruling handed down by the Federal Court of Canada
with respect to the Harry Daniels court challenge. As you may
already be aware, on January 8, 2013, the Honourable Justice
Phelan issued a decision granting recognition to over 600,000
Métis and non-Status Indians, which was subsequently
appealed by the Government of Canada.
To provide some context, it’s important to understand
that historically Métis and non-Status Indians had no
representative national organizational body to help address
the historical injustices brought upon them by the Crown
through successive acts of blatant and discriminatory
legislation. The fact is that both the Métis and non-status
Indians had their identities as peoples changed, redefined
and then changed again. These changes were at the whim of
Parliament in order to reduce, and/or eventually rid itself of
the “Indian Problem.”
Which brings us to why our former President, the late Harry
Daniels, and the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, filed an
action in 1999, (Daniels v. the Queen) and challenged the
federal government’s denial that:
Métis and non-status Indians are Indians under subsection
91(24) of the Constitution Act, 1867;
The Crown owes to Métis and non-status Indians a fiduciary
duty as Aboriginal Peoples; and,
Aboriginal people have a right to be negotiated with, on a
collective basis, in good faith with the Crown.
After years of delays by the Crown, the trial finally began in
May 2011. On January 8, 2013, the Honourable Michael L.
Phelan, of the Federal Court of Canada, issued a landmark
ruling which affirmed the position that the Congress of
Aboriginal Peoples has maintained for the past 41 years; that
Métis and non-status Indians are Indians under subsection
91 (24) of the Constitution Act, 1867. This historic decision
5
delivered long overdue recognition and
equality to over 600,000 of Canada’s
Aboriginal Peoples.
Unfortunately, the Crown chose to
appeal and we went back to court in
October 2013 to defend our victory
at the Federal Court of Appeal. As
we await the court’s ruling, I remain
cautiously optimistic that the Appeal
Court will uphold our position.
To highlight this reality, the Honourable
Michael Phelan noted in his ruling that,
the MNSI were deprived of services
and programs. This fact was further
acknowledged by the federal government
which included this statement from a
Cabinet memo:
“The Métis and non-Status Indian
people, lacking even the protection of
the Department of Indian Affairs and
Northern Development, are far more
exposed to discrimination and other
social disabilities. It is true to say that in
the absence of Federal initiative in this
field they are the most disadvantaged of
all Canadian citizens.”
Although I am not surprised that
they chose to appeal, what we had
hoped following the ruling was to
begin negotiations with the federal
government to find constructive ways
to implement the decision that would
improve the lives of Aboriginal Peoples
Additionally, the Federal Court recognized
The Late Harry Daniels
living off-reserve. As I have said many
that the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples
times, my preference would have been to
offers “National Representation” to both
sit down at the negotiating table and arrive at an agreement
Métis and Non-Status Indians throughout Canada. The court
as to what responsibilities the Government of Canada has
further highlighted, “the pivotal role CAP played in advancing
towards Métis and non–Status Indians. Unfortunately this
this claim – a role that few, if any, individuals falling within
appeal again delays and denies justice for Métis and nonthe group known as MNSI could do.”
status Indians. In addition, the legal costs for the Canadian
taxpayer keep mounting and now exceed 9 million dollars.
I have always considered myself an optimist and have believed
These costs and associated resources required to keep up
that there is still an opportunity for a new era of collaboration
the fight for our rights is a challenge, especially at a time
with the federal government; however, if this is not to be the
when the way in which government conducts business with
case, let me assure you that we are prepared to fight all the
National Aboriginal Organizations keeps changing.
way to the Supreme Court in order to fulfill the dream of the
late Harry Daniels – fairness, justice and equality for the Métis
As I have said many times, my goal has always been to
and non-Status Indians of Canada.
highlight the discrepancies, injustices and unfairness,
combined with the lack of access to programs and services,
As we await the decision, please feel free to contact the
that Aboriginal Peoples living off-reserve are faced with today. Congress anytime for additional information. Once the
What is abundantly clear is that Métis and non-Status Indians Federal Court of Appeal issues its ruling, we will keep you
(MNSI) have been ignored for far too long and consequently
informed as to the outcome and the next steps.
are one of the most vulnerable groups in Canada.
6
2013 Annual General Assembly
By: Sean Kerr
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (Congress,
CAP) held its Annual General Assembly (AGA)
on October 18th and 19th, 2013, at the Marriott
Ottawa Hotel.
Delegates from around the country came to
hear about the Congress’ year and the work it
had done. At each Annual General Assembly,
off-reserve Aboriginal delegates representing
each CAP affiliate and the National Youth
Council (NYC) get the opportunity to review
the activities, projects, political movements and
financial audits of the Congress. The delegation
then puts forth resolutions and actions for the
Congress to act on within the next year.
Being the year that the Daniels Decision
came out in favour of the Congress’
position, delegates were bustling with
questions about what the decision would
mean and what might happen if the
Federal Court of Appeal was also to deny
the appeal.
The
“What an incredible year
this has been for CAP.
We have seen so many
successes, challenges and
political movements. I am
grateful to be here today
to address you as the
National Chief of this great
organization,” – National
Chief Betty Ann Lavallée.
“What an incredible year this has
been for CAP. We have seen so many
successes, challenges and political
movements. I am grateful to be here
today to address you as the National
Chief of this great organization,” said
National Chief Betty Ann Lavallée as she welcomed Elders,
veterans, youth, delegates and others to the 42nd Annual
General Assembly (AGA) of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples
(CAP).
“Typically, I would go through my report chronologically
starting from April 1st, 2012, and moving forward through
to the end of the fiscal year at March 31st, 2013. I will,
however, step away from that tradition to first speak of the
landmark ruling that helped to put CAP back on the map and
in the forefront of Aboriginal media and issues: the Daniels
vs. Canada decision,” the Chief said, leading straight into a
description of the January 8th, 2013, decision by the Federal
Court of Canada.
Elder, Rene Chartrand, and Elder, Elize Hartley,
with the Eagle Staff
Chief gave a chronological explanation of her
political activities, reasserting the division between
the administrative and political functions of the
organization. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO),
Jim Devoe, is in charge of the administrative functions of
the organization and the National Chief is in charge of the
political direction and activities of the Congress.
The Chief acknowledged the many brothers and sisters that
had passed since the previous Assembly, including Jim Sinclair,
a founding member of CAP.
She acknowledged communities in New Brunswick who had
taken a stand over the preceding few months regarding
fracking. It was hoped that upcoming meetings with the
Premier would draw closure to some of the outstanding
concerns. The National Chief recognized the changes CAP had
experienced over the past year, noting that the organization
continued to gain strength through lessons learned.
7
The Vice-Chief recalled the court’s summation after the
January 2013 victory in the Daniels Case, which recognized
CAP as the only organization that could champion Métis and
Non-Status issues in the country.
The delegates were read the 2012 Resolutions Action
Summary. This provided insight into
the work that had been done on the
resolutions that were passed at the
2012 AGA.
It was requested that the Congress
include printed copies of any letters,
reports and responses referenced
within the resolutions in future
Resolutions Action Summaries.
Anne Prince, from the United Native Nations Society (UNNS),
stressed the importance of CAP continuing to network with
and value its partners and affiliates and suggested that
next year, CAP seek funding for summer students across the
country.
Robert Thibault, a representative
from Aboriginal Veterans
Autochtones (AVA), explained the
active role that it plays in youth
leadership programs, noting that
AVA has presented to the Aboriginal
studies programs at the University of
Ottawa.
Co-Chair Bradley Cooper was invited
to join the podium to receive a
Millennium Medal in recognition of
his military contribution to Canada,
presented by the National Chief
and Mr. Thibault. The Millennium
Medal is produced for Aboriginal
veterans as an approved decoration
for serving members of the Canadian
forces.
Delegates requested clarification
regarding the National Chief’s
discussions on a Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) with Enbridge.
Concerns were raised that some of
the organization’s projects involved
Co-Chair, Carol Labillois-Slocum and
fracking, an activity which was
CAP CEO, Jim Devoe
not condoned by all communities.
“Cautious efforts are needed to protect
The second day of the AGA heard the National Youth Council
the air, water and land for future generations,” asserted one
Report given by the National Youth Representative, Jessica
delegate.
Bolduc. The report highlighted the activities of the National
Youth Council (NYC) over the past year; revisions to the
NCPEI Chief & President, Jamie Thomas, commended the CAP
Mission Statement of the NYC, reflecting a reconnection
Executive and staff for creating relationships, noting that
MOUs help establish relationships in which partners can share to traditions; the NYC’s vision, organizational structure and
support; NYC priorities identified during strategic planning
views and change minds.
discussions; completion of the CAP NYC Welcome Package
and the CAP NYC Manual for PTOs establishing Youth Councils
In response to delegates’ comments, Vice-Chair Swain
clarified that the preliminary discussion with Enbridge related (both available for sharing via the CAP website); branding
created for NYC (including a logo) and recipients of the NYC
to a MOU for dialogue on training opportunities. Future
Youth Achievement Awards.
discussions in a formalized relationship could bring forward
other topics on CAP’s behalf.
The National Youth Representative and NYC member, Jerica
Todd Russell, President of the NunatuKavut Community
Ryan, added that the “Young Leaders Project” intended to
Council, commended the victory on the Daniels case, and
engage Aboriginal youth from the five NAOs, in partnership
Professor Magnet’s continued will and expertise, saying “The
with some national youth serving organizations. The project
decision ranked with some of the greatest victories in the
intended to promote and model what reconciliation between
courts.”
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Peoples could look like.
CAP’s CEO, Jim Devoe, gave his report which highlighted all
of the programs, projects and administrative changes and
successes of the organization for the previous fiscal year with
a brief preview into the current one.
8
CAP’s Find Your Voice Project Coordinator, Jenna Burke, and
other NYC members jointly led the Assembly in a review of
an overhead presentation on the Find Your Voice project,
highlighting the ten-session workshop toolkit, workshop
modules and a facilitator’s guide.
At the AGA, the delegation reviewed and voted on
constitutional changes for the Congress. Several of the
changes were tabled from the 2012 AGA and some were new
motions which were proposed with the appropriate 30-days’
notice to the Assembly.
Leading to the close of the Assembly, the delegation passed
resolutions instructing the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples to:
• Develop a national policy to govern its relationship
and or negotiations with developers, corporations or
proponents wishing to pursue resource development
projects on Aboriginal lands;
• Recommit itself to the Daniels litigation and plan and
put in place a post Daniels strategy in conjunction with
its PTOs;
• Call upon the Crown to acknowledge and recognize the
1765 British-Inuit Treaty, as indeed required by repeated
Supreme Court decisions, and clearly called for by
International instruments such as the UN Declaration on
the Rights of Indigenous Peoples;
• Call upon all third parties and corporations active in
development efforts in NunatuKavut to fully respect
the rights of NunatuKavut Inuit and work with their
leadership and communities to ensure their prior, full
and fair consent and participation in all developments
affecting their Aboriginal and Treaty rights;
• Amend the Constitution and By-laws to include the CAP
NYC Executive Steering Committee members as official
observers (included as an official notice of motion for
the 2014 AGA);
• Work with the NYC to identify partners and develop
funding proposals in support of the objectives of the
original Find Your Voice project concept;
• Investigate and implement a CAP legal defense fund,
ensuring that the process is accountable and transparent.
These are only a few of the resolutions passed. The Congress
has been working toward each resolution and looks forward
to its Annual General Assembly to be held in Ottawa in
September 2014.
9
AAWG Interim Status Update
Meeting
By: Sean Kerr
The Aboriginal Affairs Working Group (AAWG) is a working
group which reports to the Council of the Federation (COF).
The purpose of the AAWG is to strengthen inter-jurisdictional
collaboration
with National
Aboriginal
Organizations
and where
possible,
the federal
government,
and create
opportunities
for the sharing
of information
on the priority
areas established
by Premiers and
NAO leaders.
The federal Minister urged Ministers and Education Officials to
look at the proposal that was recently released to see how this
will improve the opportunities for First Nations Students re:
the proposed First Nations Education Act.
“For the first time ever, there is – in proposed legislation – a
statutory duty on the Minister to pay unto First Nations,”
Minister Valcourt said of the proposed Act.
The Minister
stressed that we
have isolated
communities and
that all sorts of
factors need to
be taken into
account when
deciding the
funding module.
This proposed
legislation
would include
a statutory
obligation on
the Minister to
pay unto First
Nations for that
Education system.
In November
2013, the AAWG
held an Interim
The Aboriginal Affairs Working Group (AAWG)
Status Update
The second issue
Meeting to inform
that the Minister addressed was Emergency Management
Ministers and Leaders of the work that had been advanced
On-Reserve. The Minister made it clear that the Conservative
on the April 2013 recommendations to date in Winnipeg,
Government appreciates the lead role that Provinces and
Manitoba.
Territories take for Emergency Management. He commended
Premier Greg Selinger of Manitoba welcomed the people in
the room and commended the extension of the Truth and
Reconciliation commission and activities.
The meeting was chaired by Minister Eric Robinson, MB
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs. He welcomed Minister Valcourt
and noted that it is a great success that the Federal Minister
has attended the AAWG meeting for the first time in several
years.
Minister Valcourt noted that there are so many important
issues, such as the ones brought up in the opening remarks by
Premier Selinger; however, there are two specific topics that
he wanted to talk about: First Nations’ Education and OnReserve Emergency Management.
10
the province of Alberta for its efforts during the June 2013
flooding.
Following the federal Minister of Aboriginal Affairs’
presentation, Justice Murray Sinclair, Chair of the Truth and
Reconciliation Committee (TRC), presented on the work of the
TRC and of the stories and successes that came about during
the project. He presented from the TRC report based on the
findings during the course of the project.
Each working group of the AAWG presented the specific
interim/progress reports on the work done since the April
2013 meeting of Ministers and Leaders. The co-leads of the
various committees presented on the subject, and then the
table would open for general comments and/or discussion.
AFN Regional Chief Googoo presented on behalf of the
Aboriginal Education sub-committee. He spoke about how
society views Aboriginal Peoples as one group rather than
different tribes with various languages and traditions and of
the importance of enabling and empowering the education
systems to teach not only Aboriginal Peoples about Aboriginal
history and languages, but to teach it to the general Canadian
populous as well.
CAP’s National Chief, Betty Ann Lavallée, noted that over
70% of Aboriginal population lives off-reserve, expressing
that it is time to reflect that in our educational policies and
frameworks. CAP applauds the Northwest Territories and
Nunavut for their Aboriginal curriculums that have been
implemented in their grade 10 high school programs.
Michèle Audette and her counterpart, Vanessa Tait (President,
Moon Voices, Manitoba), presented the work of the Ending
Violence Against Aboriginal Women and Girls (EVAAWG) subcommittee.
The EVAAWG working group was directed, at the April 2013
AAWG meeting, to draft a proposal for the development of a
framework of action for stopping violence against Aboriginal
women and girls. This action plan will comprise a menu of
actions from which provinces/territories could choose and
adapt based on discussions with Aboriginal communities
regarding their unique circumstances and needs.
The draft framework is underway and includes the guiding
principle that: violence against Aboriginal women and girls
is unacceptable, and all orders of government, Aboriginal
peoples, and organizations will strive to address the root
causes of violence that are within their respective control in a
collaborative and culturally respectful manner with the goal
of ending violence against Aboriginal women and girls.
Betty Ann Lavallée, presented on behalf of the Housing Task
Force.
As of the November meeting, the Housing Task Force had
developed a Draft Housing Terms of Reference as well as
a Draft Housing Inventory Template. The provinces and
territories have begun populating the Draft Housing Inventory
Template, and work on finessing the structure of that
inventory while populating it was under way.
Following the report, the table voted that there would be
a separate Housing Sub-Committee going forward (now
named the Aboriginal Housing Working Group) co-led by the
Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and the Government of New
Brunswick.
The Chief noted that, “I applaud the work that the Housing
Task Force has been doing, and look forward to seeing the
scoped out Housing Inventory once it is fully developed. This
type of a tool will prove invaluable to Aboriginal Peoples
and organizations when it comes to looking for programs
and initiatives that will best suit them in their individual
circumstances. I also know that this type of an inventory will
prove invaluable to policy and decision makers when it comes
to developing future housing programs as it will outline the
gaps and needs within the Housing realm of this country.
Without safe, affordable housing, these dreams of education,
free of violence with equitable opportunities in the economic
fabric of Canada will not be possible. Housing is at the root of
all the success of these other priority areas.”
Next, the Disaster Mitigation On-Reserve committee
presented on its work. As per the direction given in the
January 11, 2013, COF mandate letter, Manitoba will lead in
bringing the federal government to the AAWG table to discuss
a national disaster mitigation strategy on-reserve. A work plan
will be finalized setting out priorities, goals, objectives and
timelines for the April 2014 meeting of AAWG Ministers and
NAO Leaders.
New Brunswick’s Deputy Minister, Patrick Francis, read
the status of the Aboriginal Economic Development subcommittee, which the Congress is a co-lead on, to the room.
He expressed that there are 80
success stories on the website.
The four pillars of Emergency Management:
There have been hits from all
over the world with positive
PREPAREDNESS
feedback and comments.
As the Congress is one of the coleads on the Aboriginal Housing
Task Force, CAP’s National Chief,
RESPONSE
RECOVERY
MITIGATION
The AAWG Interim Status Update
meeting came to a close with
all parties geared up for the
remainder of the year. Working
groups and sub-committees
are prepped and ready for the
May 2014 meeting with new
recommendations and actions for
each of the priority areas.
11
CAP and Community
Awegonen ke-Mìdjiyeng Onàgoshig? (What’s for Supper?)
By: Sean Kerr
The Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg (KZA) reserve is an Algonquin
community near Maniwaki, Quebec. In the summer of 2013,
the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Natural Resource and Wildlife
Department released a cookbook accompanied by a children’s
storybook as a way to bring people back to the traditional
ways of eating. The idea being that, after several years of
research, there have been many environmental contaminants
discovered in the KZA traditional territory.
has had with hunting the animals. Divided into sections, the
cookbook gives the name of the animal in the Algonquin
language, allowing for some traditional learning.
Accompanying the release of the cookbook was a children’s
book, entitled What’s For Supper? Awegonen ke-Mìdjiyeng
Onàgoshig? The children’s book was written by Linda DwyerCommando and Deborah Decontie and illustrated by Jay
Odjick. The story is told in both English and Algonquin. A
French and English version is available as well.
The KZA Natural Resource and Wildlife Department turned
to the community members, specifically the Elders, to seek
out traditional recipes to be included in the cookbook. The
latest push in society is for healthy, low-in-fat foods, and the
Awegonen ke-Mìdjiyeng Onàgoshig? cookbook provides all of
that.
This is a very effective way to teach children about the
traditional uses for animals and berries and natural resources
as well as the importance of eating healthy foods. Join little
Tanner and his sister Nòkà as they explore their traditional
territory with Buck the moose and Nibì the fish to learn about
the healthy benefits of eating traditional foods.
The cookbook explains the benefits of eating traditional foods
by comparing them to the common meats and foods found
in grocery stores. The benefits, such as less calories, more
iron and more zinc, are described in the book along with the
specific ways they are better for your health.
At the end of the book, the two mascots are introduced as
a learning tool for First Nations communities to use when
teaching children about healthy eating.
The cookbook delves into the traditional uses for the various
animals and some of the history that the KZA community
Awegonen ke-Mìdjiyeng Onàgoshig?
Cookbook: $19.95
12
The books are available to anyone and can be easily purchased
in Ottawa by contacting Helene Cayer at 613-749-3682.
What’s For Supper? Awegonen ke-Mìdjiyeng
Onàgoshig? Children’s book: $14.95
New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council
New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council (NBAPC) Elects New Leaders
By: Sacha Boies Novak
The New Brunswick Aboriginal People’s Council (NBAPC) held
its 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) in July 2013 where, as
a result of the Universal Suffrage Process, Wendy Wetteland
was elected at the new President and Chief and Amanda
LeBlanc was elected as the new Vice-Chief.
The New Brunswick
Aboriginal Peoples Council
is the off-reserve Aboriginal
voice for approximately 28,
260 Status and Non-Status
Aboriginal Peoples who
reside in the Province of
New Brunswick.
to working with our constituencies to
moving our organization forward. I
am very excited about the increased
youth involvement and am optimistic
that great things will come as a result,”
stated the new Vice-Chief.
The Assembly passed major resolutions in support of NBAPC’s
constituents’ full and accountable involvement in treaty and
Aboriginal rights, as well as investments in youth education,
culture and a strategic plan for the engagement of the
membership with all levels of government.
Respected guest, Captain
Russell Julian of the Mi’kmaq
Grand Council, is quoted
having said, “Good assembly,
enjoyable and a good
democratic way of cleansing
the air, you win some and
you lose some. But most of
all the assembly wins.”
Wendy Wetteland has years
of experience working for
NBAPC and is determined
to move the organization
forward. She is quoted as
NBAPC Chief & President,
saying,
“It is an honor to
Wendy Wetteland
have been elected and I am
committed to advancing the rights of our constituents, the
Aboriginal Peoples residing off-reserve in the Province of New
Brunswick.”
Amanda LeBlanc is looking forward to the challenge and the
learning opportunity that she expects will come in the next
months and years as the Vice-Chief. “I am looking forward
NBAPC Vice-Chief,
Amanda LeBlanc
To arrange an interview with
Chief Wendy Wetteland,
please contact Sacha Boies
Novak, Communication
Officer, 506-458-8422 or
[email protected].
13
Success Stories
Celebrating Three Exemplary Young Women
By: Sean Kerr
In this issue of The Forgotten People, we are
featuring the three outstanding winners of
the CAP National Youth Council’s Annual
Aboriginal Youth Achievement Awards.
“It’s time for a change.
It’s time to stop playing
the victim and step up
and be proud of who we
are and what we can do.
It’s time to stand up and
acknowledge our young
peoples’ accomplishments
as loud as we can.”
These three young women were flown to
Ottawa, Ontario, to attend the banquet at the
Congress of Aboriginal Peoples’ 42nd Annual
General Assembly in October 2013. At this
award ceremony, National Chief, Betty Ann
Lavallée, and National Youth Representative,
Jessica Bolduc, presented them with their
awards. This was a first for the Congress, and
the delegation at the Assembly were excited
to have the opportunity to listen to and meet
the winners of the 2013 youth awards.
Recognizing youth for their achievements is
a great way to build self-esteem, and more
importantly, it establishes role models who
– National Chief Betty Ann
empower others to see that their goals are
Lavallée, CD, (Ret).
tangible. Understanding how important this
is for our youth, the Congress of Aboriginal
Peoples’ National Youth Council established
Please enjoy the stories of Melanie-Rose
this unique awards program to honour and show appreciation Frappier, Shannon Lee Bear and Zondra (Zoey) Roy.
to both achievements and efforts.
14
Melanie Rose-Frappier
Mélanie-Rose Frappier is a 16-year-old member of the Métis Nation of Ontario
from Sudbury, Ontario, who embodies leadership and inspiration. She always
strives to be a role model for others in the community. Mélanie-Rose volunteers
weekly at the YMCA, teaching children how to play squash and swim. She also
plays piano and sings to the elderly regularly. As of October 2013, Mélanie-Rose
had volunteered over two hundred hours with the number still climbing.
Despite having difficulties reading, Mélanie-Rose has always been an honour roll
student. She is able to maintain these grades while attending as many Aboriginal
programs that provide her with personal, spiritual and cultural growth. Being very
proud of her francophone and Métis heritage, she has been able to participate
in many events such as Louis Riel Day, National Aboriginal Day and Leadership
Camps both as a mentor and a participant.
Mélanie-Rose was chosen for the Youth Ambassador of Canada program to
represent Northern Ontario. Being very committed to making a difference in her
community, she has created a project named: “C’est cool d’être en santé - It’s
Cool to be Healthy,” that promotes healthy living through nutrition and exercise.
Mélanie-Rose plans to include this healthy lifestyle in her community by actively
presenting to schools, daycares and associations.
Annually, Mélanie-Rose helps raise funds for cancer and has also performed
several times on the MCTV Telethon to raise funds for the less fortunate.
Shannon Lee Bear
Shannon Lee Bear is a 26-year-old
youth from Peguis First Nation in
Manitoba. Growing up on her reserve
community, Shannon was raised with
close contact and exposure to her
cultural traditions and was taught to be
proud of her heritage.
She left her home community at the
age of 17 to attend the University of
Winnipeg. While adjusting to the higher
level of curriculum, her determination
to succeed led Shannon to seek out tutors for every subject.
During this journey, she discovered a passion for Aboriginal
politics and history, prompting her to change her major to
Indigenous Studies.
During her final year of University, Shannon learned she
was expecting a child. Despite the challenges faced with the
premature birth of her daughter, Shannon’s love for law,
politics and culture got her through the stresses of being
a new parent, attending to her daughter’s needs, while
completing her studies. Shannon graduated with a Bachelor
Melanie-Rose Frappier
A model student and a wonderful young
woman who is kind and compassionate,
Mélanie-Rose leads by example and is
referred to as a “ray of sunshine” by her
teachers. Her dedication and commitment
to improving the health of her community
is inspiring and a positive step as she
strives to pursue a career in the medical
field.
of Arts Degree with a double major in
Indigenous Studies and Politics. She began
working in Winnipeg for organizations
such as the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
in the youth department.
In May 2012, Shannon lost a close family
member to suicide. To begin her healing
process, she went back to her traditional
teachings and relied on her spirituality
and dancing. Shannon dreamed that
jingles from a female pow-wow dancer
would heal Aboriginal youth from drug
addictions, depression and alienation and
family issues.
She was chosen from the community to mentor and educate
young Aboriginal women how to dance, to attend cultural
events, create their own regalia, bead and sew. Shannon has
set out on her path to regain the seven teachings of bravery,
courage, truth, honesty, respect and humility. She is currently
attending the University of Winnipeg to pursue a Master’s
Degree in Indigenous Development. Her long-term goal is to
be a founder of an International Development Corporation
focusing on the holistic well-being of Indigenous Peoples.
15
Zondra “Zoey” Roy
Zondra “Zoey” Roy is a 24-year-old woman
from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, with roots
from Black Lake Denesuline Nation and
Cormorant Lake Manitoba. Zoey has dealt
with a number of adversities throughout
her lifetime that have strengthened her to
become the strong young woman that she
is today. At the age of 15, reaching out to
her community and getting involved and
volunteering was the first step she took
toward her new life.
Zoey has been working closely with various
organizations and youth from across Canada
and around the world. She has received high recognition for
her innovative approaches in addressing social issues through
positive movements and education.
She founded “Rock the Vote” in Saskatchewan, which turned
into a Canadian Movement during the 2011 Federal Election
and mobilized disenfranchised populations across Canada,
with the goal to increase informed decision makers in
marginalized communities.
Zoey recently traveled to the
United Nations Permanent Forum
on Indigenous Issues in New
York City to advocate for young
Indigenous and Métis people
who are politically and socially
marginalized within Canada and
around the world.
She is currently working with
and/or volunteering for various
organizations. She also facilitated
a “Special Credit 30” course
at the Oskayak High School,
teaching life skills based on
the medicine wheel. Zoey is a
Canadian Heritage Success Story
for 2012, a recipient for the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal
and Saskatoon’s 2013 Women of Distinction Youth Award
Recipient.
Zoey attends the University of Saskatchewan with the goal
to achieve a Bachelor of Education. Her goal is to inspire
people to become educated; however, she does recognize
the inequities that exist, and she will continue to take an
educational approach through her work and support youth to
become leaders.
Words of Wisdom “The legacy is in the process”
16
National Youth Council
National Youth Council Update
By: Rufus Jacobs
This last year saw another three
successful gatherings of the National
Youth Council (NYC) where the
sharing of ideas and team work
was strengthened. The NYC had the
opportunity to meet three times
this year, including their preAnnual General Assembly (AGA)
NYC meeting, an Anti-Bullying
Strategy Development Weekend and
an NYC year-end meeting held in
conjunction with the 4Rs Conference
in Edmonton, Alberta.
At the pre-AGA NYC meeting, the
National Youth Council held elections
for its National Youth Representative and Steering Committee
Members. Once again we are excited that Jessica Bolduc was
re-elected as the National Youth Representative. She provides
great energy and spirit. Her dedication and experience is a
welcomed asset to the National Youth Council.
The NYC was pleased with the results of the resolutions put
forward. It was agreed that the Congress
of Aboriginal Peoples’ (CAP, Congress)
staff would assist the NYC identify
partners and develop funding proposals.
The NYC is pleased that the Congress
has agreed to amend the CAP
Constitution & Bylaws to reflect
that any new Constituent Member
Organization must have a voting youth
board position reflected in their bylaws.
The NYC held an empowering meeting
focused on different policy ideas
and strategies. Participants shared
heartwarming stories and provided
further feedback to incorporate into
the youth’s stance on policy issues. It
was unanimously agreed that one of
the NYC’s primary focuses for this year
is bullying. The NYC’s current focus is
on employment, training and career
opportunities available to Aboriginal
youth living off-reserve.
In a first for the Congress, the three recipients of the NYC’s
Annual Aboriginal Youth Achievement Awards were flown
to Ottawa to attend the banquet at the CAP AGA to receive
their award. The National Chief, Betty Ann Lavallée, and the
National Youth Representative, Jessica Bolduc, presented the
One of the NYC’s commitments is to
improve communications as an approach
to better promote projects and reach out
to the grassroots youth that it represents.
The Congress has agreed to assist with
the development and implementation
of the NYC’s communication strategy
through CAP’s administration and
National Youth Coordinator. Together
they will work to develop and implement
a communication’s strategy that is driven
by the NYC.
17
three women with their awards. The three
winners are this year’s Success Stories and
their stories can be found in that section of
this newsletter.
The anti-bullying weekend retreat, in February
2014, was helpful and productive in the
generation of ideas and ways forward for the
NYC’s proposed strategy. The initial objective
of this retreat was to learn and participate
in activities relating to the issue of bullying
that were to be organized by the facilitator;
however, a minor setback occurred when the
facilitator cancelled at the last minute. This
provided the participants with an opportunity
to review and refine its initiatives and followups as well as to brainstorm and focus on the
NYC’s anti-bullying strategy.
The NYC is one of fourteen organizations that launched the
4R’s Initiative. The initiative 4Rs means “For Ours”. It is in its
early stages and is represented by five national youth-serving
organizations, six National Aboriginal Organizations and three
charitable organizations. The overall mission of the 4Rs is to
change the country by changing the relationship between
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal youth. Four key principles
emerged, including respect, reconciliation, reciprocity and
relevance.
During the March 2014 meeting, the National
Youth Council addressed the Provincial Youth
Council Welcome Packages. As a directive
by the NYC, the National Youth Coordinator
worked closely with Steering Committee
member, Bradley Cooper, to create the
Provincial Youth Council Welcome Packages
as the Native Council of Prince Edward Island
already has a current Youth Council structure
in place. The idea is to have a guide for other
PTO Youth Councils to use when creating
their own welcome packages and council
structures.
The PTO Welcome Package will include
a Welcome Letter Template, Youth
Representative Contact List Template,
Interests and Qualifications Template, Information on the
National Youth Council and the Congress and a section that
will allow Youth Representatives to input current initiatives
and programs available to Aboriginal Youth.
The NYC has had a productive year and is looking forward to
many more successes in the year to come. The National Youth
Council’s Anti-Bullying Strategy for off-reserve Aboriginal
Youth will be rolled out at the September 2014 Annual
General Assembly. The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is the National Aboriginal Organization which represents the interests of offreserve non-status and status Indians, Southern Inuit of Labrador and Métis Peoples living in urban, rural, remote
and isolated areas throughout Canada. We are also the national voice for the constituency and their affiliate
organizations making up the Congress’ family of advocates for the off-reserve Aboriginal Peoples of Canada.
18
Anti-Bullying Strategy Roll-Out
By: Rufus Jacobs
It is no surprise that bullying is becoming a national problem
that needs to be addressed. Governments and organizations
across the country have started to advocate toward a national
anti-bullying campaign. The National Youth Council (NYC)
unanimously agreed that Aboriginal youth need to add their
voice in support of the anti-bullying movement as bullying
takes shape in a different form for Aboriginal youth, notably
the off-reserve Aboriginal youth who often feel that they do
not belong in either on- or off-reserve communities.
The NYC has taken positive action to formulate and establish
an anti-bullying strategy based on affirmative perspectives
and principles. When addressing specific components of
bullying, the NYC discovered a common theme prevailed that
is based on “identity”.
There is a need to build capacity for young Aboriginal leaders
in off-reserve Aboriginal communities to combat bullying by
building on strengths and opportunities while being mindful
of weaknesses. The NYC’s current objective uses a holistic
community-based approach targeted at school aged children.
One of the priorities put forward is to integrate the sacred
seven grandfather teachings into the NYC’s anti-bullying
strategies. This reflects the seven natural laws of life: love,
respect, truth, courage, humility, wisdom and honesty.
In moving forward with this strategy, the NYC is working
toward partnerships with genuine national organizations
and the private sector. The NYC is prepared to partner with
Wade White Jr.; National Youth Representative, Jessica Bolduc;
and Find Your Voice Coordinator, Jenna Burke
organizations and industries that hold a similar vision and
focus to combat this national crisis.
“Throughout this strategy, we plan to advocate for more
education and awareness to both Aboriginal and nonAboriginal Peoples pertaining to all aspects of bullying. We
will use our voices and speak out for those who have been
or are at risk to be affected by bullying,” said National Youth
Representative, Jessica Bolduc.
Adding, “Our elders have moved us, we will continue to listen
to their stories and receive their guidance and strength to
progress forward. This issue is evolving and will continue to
transpire until we come together with a common goal to work
toward making a difference in support of eliminating bullying
in our communities.”
19
The Forgotten People is a free communiqué profiling the work of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and its Provincial
Territorial affiliates.
Compiled by Sean Kerr, Project Coordinator
The views expressed and the information shared within this publication reflects those solely of the writers and does not necessarily represent
the views of CAP or any of its partnered affiliates nor confirm their accuracy.
Happy Valley – Goose Bay, NL
(709) 896-0592 www.labradormetis.ca
Ontario Coalition of Aboriginal People
Wabigoon, ON
(807) 938-1321 www.o-cap.ca
Federation of Newfoundland Indians
Cornerbrook, NL
(709) 634-7763 www.fni.nf.ca
Aboriginal Affairs Coalition of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon, SK
New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council
Fredericton, NB
(506) 458-8422 www.nbapc.org
United Native Nations Society of British Columbia
North Vancouver/Prince George, BC
Native Council of Nova Scotia
Truro, NS
(902) 895-1523 www.ncns.ca
Native Council of Prince Edward Island
Charlottetown, PEI
(902) 892-5314 www.ncpei.com
Native Alliance of Quebec /
Alliance Autochtone du Québec
Gatineau, QC
(819) 770-7763 www.aaqnaq.com
CAP National Youth Council
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
(705) 253-0534
CAP Elders Council
Ottawa, ON
(613) 747-6022
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples
The National Representative Organization and National Voice for Off-Reserve,
Non-Status and Status Indians, Southern Inuit of Labrador and Métis Aboriginal Peoples living in urban, rural, remote and
isolated areas throughout Canada.
THE CONGRESS OF ABORIGINAL PEOPLES
867 boul. St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa, Ontario K1K 3B1
Tel: (613) 747-6022 • Fax: (613) 747-8834 • Email: [email protected]
To subscribe or unsubscribe to The Forgotten People, please email Sean at [email protected]
The Forgotten People is also available online http://www.abo-peoples.org
© Spring 2014, CAP, Ottawa, Ontario.
20

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