News Release

November 23, 2007 -- The National Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP), Patrick Brazeau, welcomed the Ontario Coalition of Aboriginal Peoples (OCAP) into the CAP family. “I am pleased that the delegates of our recent Annual General Assembly have ratified OCAP’s application for affiliation with CAP”.

The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples represents the rights and interests of off-reserve Aboriginal people in urban, rural, and remote areas of Canada. In 2006, CAP suspended its former affiliate because of concerns about that organization’s accountability and financial practices. “Off reserve, non-status and Metis peoples in Ontario need an accountable and transparent political voice” said Chief Brazeau. “The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is committed to working with OCAP to ensure that the aspirations and needs of the off-reserve Aboriginal community are not forgotten in Ontario” he added.

Brad Maggrah, the President of OCAP, was delighted with the General Assembly’s unanimous endorsement of OCAP’s application for membership in the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. “Our membership is enthusiastic about their affiliation with CAP and its leadership” Mr. Maggrah said. “CAP has been advocating for grassroots Aboriginal people in Canada for more than thirty five years. We share philosophies and principles of accountability, transparency and equitable treatment for all Aboriginal people in Canada.”

The Ontario Coalition of Aboriginal People is an incorporated, not-for-profit, membership based coalition formed to advocate for the rights and interests of Metis, Non-Status, Inuit, and Off-Reserve status people living in urban, rural and remote areas throughout Ontario. It is committed to building capacity within community based organizations, collaboration, and the development of partnerships that will provide long-term solutions to the needs of Aboriginal people across Ontario.

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For More Information

Lorraine Foreman Brad Maggrah

Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Ontario Coalition of Aboriginal Peoples

(613) 747-6022 (807) 938-1321