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International Art Treasures Web Magazine June 2006 |
OCAP Photo Exhibit
Tinto Coffee House
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The Ontario Coalition Against Poverty (OCAP) is an anti-poverty group that has operated in Toronto for over 15 years. It has a rich history of standing behind the people that society overlooks. Those who have problems with social assistance, housing and immigration, among other issues. Throughout their history OCAP has photographed many of their protests and events. These photographs will be on display at the Tinto Coffee House in Toronto |
OCAP grew out of a struggle for welfare reform that began in the late 1980s, culminating in a 1989 march to the seat of the Ontario Legislature, Queen's Park in Toronto. The various participatory groups decided that an organization or coalition against poverty was necessary for Ontario.
Title: Gate Keeper
Image Courtesy: OCAP
The 'founding conference' of OCAP was in the fall of 1990. Some of their campaigns include: Mulroneyville, Days of Action, June 15th 2000 Homeless March and the current Raise the Rates. The latter is an attempt to bring social welfare rates back to where they were prior to the government cuts of the 1990s through the Harris led Tory provincial government. OCAP proposes a 40 percent increase.
Title: June 15th 2000 Homeless March
Image Courtesy: OCAP
Fifteen years ago OCAP likely couldn't have foreseen their continued work fighting poverty in the province of Ontario.
Title: John Clarke of the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty
Image Courtesy: OCAP
Groups like this tend not to think of documentation for prosperity. Yet during its history various members have photographed their protests and actions and this legacy will be on display showcasing the history of OCAP.