Canada and the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Sign Political Accord
News release
December 12, 2018 — Ottawa, Ontario — Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
On December 5, 2018, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Carolyn Bennett, and National Chief Robert Bertrand and National Vice-Chief Kim Beaudin of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples signed the Canada-Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Political Accord.
As one of only five National Indigenous Representative Organizations, the Accord is an important step towards a renewed relationship with the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and Canada—one based on respect, co-operation, and partnership.
Through the Canada–Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Political Accord, Canada and the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples will identify joint priorities and co-develop policy to improve socio-economic conditions for the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples' constituents - off-reserve Status and non-Status Indians, NunatuKavut Inuit and Métis peoples.
"We are so excited to establish a new Canada-Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Political Accord that reflects our shared priorities of collaboration and partnership. I thank the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples for their advocacy which made this accord possible, and I look forward to continuing our work together on the issues that matter most to their people"
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
"This signing of the Canada-Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Political Accord is a breakthrough for our people. For the first time, we have an agreement with the government that recognizes the Supreme Court of Canada's Daniels decision, our 17-year battle for recognition. We celebrate this achievement, and look forward to working with government to plan and deliver for our people."
Robert Bertrand
National Chief, Congress of Aboriginal Peoples
"This Political Accord is a great step forward in our fight for recognition. It signifies a commitment on the part of Canada to include the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples in matters related to the rights, interests, and needs of our off-reserve Indigenous community."
Kim Beaudin
National Vice Chief, Congress of Aboriginal Peoples
