About Congress of aboriginal peoples
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) is a national organization that represents the interests of off-reserve status and non-status Indians, Métis, and Southern Inuit Aboriginal Peoples. The organization was founded in 1971 to advocate for the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples living outside their traditional territories.
CAP's mission is to promote the social, economic, cultural, and political well-being of Indigenous peoples living off-reserve. The organization works towards achieving this goal by advocating for policies that address the unique needs and challenges faced by off-reserve Indigenous communities.
One of CAP's primary objectives is to ensure that off-reserve Indigenous peoples have access to essential services such as healthcare, education, housing, and employment opportunities. The organization also works towards preserving Indigenous languages and cultures through various initiatives aimed at promoting cultural awareness and understanding.
In addition to its advocacy work on behalf of off-reserve Indigenous communities, CAP also provides a range of programs and services designed to support its members. These include legal assistance programs, youth leadership development initiatives, community engagement activities, as well as various health promotion programs.
CAP has been instrumental in advancing the rights of off-reserve Indigenous peoples in Canada. Through its advocacy efforts over the years, the organization has successfully lobbied for changes in government policies that have had a significant impact on improving the lives of thousands of individuals across Canada.
One notable achievement was CAP's successful lobbying efforts for recognition under section 35(2) of Canada's Constitution Act. This recognition affirmed that all Aboriginal Peoples in Canada are entitled to constitutional protection regardless if they live on or off reserve lands.
Another significant accomplishment was CAP's role in securing funding from the federal government for urban Aboriginal housing initiatives. This funding has helped provide safe affordable housing options for many families living outside their traditional territories.
Overall CAP plays an important role in advocating for social justice issues affecting indigenous people who live outside their traditional territories while providing support services aimed at improving their quality of life. The organization's work is critical in ensuring that off-reserve Indigenous peoples have a voice and are represented in the national dialogue on Indigenous issues.