The RCAAQ
We are the provincial body that coordinates and represents Native Friendship Centres in Quebec. Our main focus areas contribute to an overall vision of social change by and for First Nations and Inuit in urban areas.
There are 11 Native Friendship Centres affiliated with the RCAAQ. They offer services to meet the needs of Indigenous people living in or passing through 14 cities across Quebec.
The RCAAQ is a member of the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC), which represents over 100 Centres and provincial and territorial associations across Canada.
The Quebec Native Friendship Centre Movement
Our Movement is made up of the RCAAQ, the Native Friendship Centres and the SIRCAAQ, our real estate corporation. It is the largest service infrastructure for First Nations and Inuit in urban areas.
Our mission
To defend the collective rights and interests of First Nations and Inuit in urban areas and to support our members.
Our vision
To expand our role as a driving force for change to make a powerful impact on the delivery of culturally relevant services and the self-determination of Indigenous Peoples in urban areas.
Our values
Kindness
Empowering individuals, honouring our history, cultures and uniqueness, taking action with humility and putting the collective good first.
Cooperation
Leveraging mutual support and knowledge sharing, valuing cultural differences and creating spaces for cooperation to achieve common goals.
Involvement
Unifying our efforts and knowledge sharing to fulfill our mission, affirming collective strength and inspiring leadership while solidifying our cultural and organizational identity.
Innovation
Crafting solutions that meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples and that are grounded in cultural awareness. Our projects and approaches are designed to be transformative.
Integrity
Acting ethically and remaining true to our values, adopting a fair and diligent approach to fulfilling our mission and aligning vision and initiatives.
Respect
Assessing the impact of our actions on others, honouring our traditions and working for future generations. Respect is shown by our words and actions, through good manners and harmonious relations.
More than just a brand
Rooted in tradition
Our logo is an emblem of history, values and vision. Created in the early 1980s by Christine Sioui Wawanoloath, it was inspired by a work of birch bark art and reflects our respect for tradition.
A symbol of renewal and dialogue
The sunrise evokes a new beginning, illustrating the RCAAQ’s first steps. Held by two human figures, the peace pipe and the gift represent an offering to the universe and an exchange between nations. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of the dialogue and solidarity that continue to guide our work today.
Reports and documentation
Our vision for the future
Guided by our mission and values, we have defined concrete strategies and actions to address urban Indigenous priorities. Our 2023–2027 plan sets the course for the coming years.
Looking back at the past year
This annual report highlights our achievements, our progress and the impact of our actions over the past year. Through concrete initiatives and strong partnerships, we pursue our commitment to the deployment of culturally relevant services and to the self-determination of urban Indigenous populations.