National Chief Robert Bertrand of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples observed the 2017 International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. He noted that a statement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (Papineau, Que.) affirmed that, “We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to review federal laws and policies to ensure we respect both our constitutional obligations and … Read more
National Chief Robert Bertrand of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples congratulated all those who participated at the North American Indigenous Games in Toronto. “CAP is proud of the endless determination undertaken by our young Indigenous athletes who, through their participation at NAIG, made a significant contribution towards spreading the physical and cultural benefits of sports to … Read more
National Chief Robert Bertrand of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples was encouraged by the level of engagement with the provincial and territorial premiers at the Council of the Federation meeting in Edmonton, Alta. In meeting with the Premiers, Bertrand discussed a broad range of key issues including CAP’s continued support for the National Inquiry into Missing and … Read more
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is saddened to hear about the resignation of Commissioner Marilyn Poitras from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. “I cannot stress just how important and meaningful this National Inquiry is, not only for those directly affected but to all Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples,” said National Chief … Read more
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples remains optimistic that the MMIWG Inquiry will succeed despite ongoing challenges. “Although the Inquiry has faced some administrative setbacks, CAP still believes it will shed much needed light on the issue,” says CAP National Chief Robert Bertrand. “Our last meeting with commissioners was open, informative and overall positive.” He continued “The … Read more
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples supports an NDP private members bill calling for a national statutory holiday recognizing Canada’s First Peoples. “A national holiday would be an opportunity for Canadians to recognize and learn about things like the residential school system, treaties, and the many different cultures throughout the land,” says CAP National Chief Robert Bertrand. NDP MP … Read more
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is troubled to learn hate crimes are on the rise in Canada, including those against Indigenous Peoples. “Indigenous people have endured systemic racism and hatred for centuries now,” says Robert Bertrand, National Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. “These new stats must spark a change in attitude and policy.” The number … Read more
Two Indigenous teens who died in the waterways of Thunder Bay, has come on the heels of an inquest into the deaths of five other Indigenous teens, who also died in local rivers. The handling of these deaths prompted an investigation into “systemic racism” by the Office of the Independent Review Director. And just last week … Read more
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is excited to be working with the Government of Canada to help design an Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework. “This community-led approach will ensure the voices of our People are heard,” says Congress of Aboriginal Peoples National Chief Robert Bertrand. “It’s crucial that we make the necessary investments in … Read more
The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples applauds Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (Papineau, Que.) for his request to have the Catholic Church apologize for its role in Indian Residential Schools. “There is still a long road to reconciliation,” says CAP National Chief Robert Bertrand. “But an apology from the Catholic Church would go a long way in helping … Read more
