This sub-series represents the development of a unique symbiotic structure attempting to link national Indian representative organizations with the Liberal Party. According to the A.P.C.'s brochure, "the APC is a vehicle within the Party which voices concerns on behalf of Aboriginal Peoples and provides input into Liberal Party policies". It short, it was an attempt to achieve Indian objectives through a strengthened voice which could resonate through the structure of a dominant political party which could govern the country. In return, the party would benefit from the electoral support it would receive from Indians, who could affect the outcome of elections in at least a dozen ridings across the country. Indian leaders hoped, of course, for a favourable disposition on the part of Liberal Party leaders for causes which they held dear.
The documents in this sub-series consist of correspondence, often with significant Indian leaders and heads of Indian organizations. There is also correspondence with First Nations' representatives in Parliament - the MPs Jack Anawak, Ethel Blondin-Andrew and Elijah Harper; and the Senators Willie Adams and Charlie Watt. In addition to correspondence, there are briefing papers, position papers, agendas, proceedings of meetings of the A.P.C. Board, documents about conventions and joint A.P.C.-Liberal Party caucuses.
This sub-series reveals how the A.P.C. tried to reach out to Indian organizations and entities to bring all together to speak with a stronger, common voice through the Liberal Party. The sub-series also reveals the issues of concern for First Nations across Canada. In addition to the great issues of self-government, land claims settlement and coming out from under the Indian Act, there are also the every-day concerns of Aboriginals reflected in these papers - air transport to distant reserves, forestry access and management, economic development, hunting and fishing rights, freedom from application of the GST, medical care and healthy babies, education and so on.
There are several unique file clusters here. There are a number of case files on Indians attempting to reclaim Indian status which demonstrate the complexity of Indian-D.I.A.N.D. / I.N.A.C. relations. There are also a number of files detailing Marchand's attempts to realize a project so very dear to his heart - the erection, in Ottawa, of an Aboriginal War Veterans Monument, in recognition of the military service and sacrifices of so many of Canada's Aboriginal Peoples.
