The First Nations Information Governance Centre

Data sovereignty is among the most pressing issues facing First Nations from coast-to-coast-to-coast. As Nations we recognize that information, knowledge, and research are critical to accessing resources, influencing government policy, or assessing the effectiveness of policies, services, programs, or public health interventions that affect our people. Access to timely, relevant, and quality data is essential to effectively advocate for change needed to adequately address health disparities Nations have experienced as a result of colonization and systemic racism.

Supporting and advocating for this kind of evidence‑based decision making is what has fueled the important work of the First Nations Information Governance Centre (FNIGC) since its inception as an independent non‑profit more than a decade ago and, in fact, since the original work of the National Steering Committee began more than two decades ago. Today, FNIGC and its partners remain at the forefront of First Nations data sovereignty and information governance efforts.

Recently the global pandemic has introduced a myriad of new challenges to these efforts, but FNIGC and its partners responded quickly to adapt its operations and ensure that we continue to advance our vision and mission. Throughout it all, FNIGC remains committed to furthering the important work we have been tasked with, which includes supporting every First Nation in achieving data sovereignty in alignment with its distinct world view.

Since its creation as an independent First Nations non-profit in April 2010, FNIGC has been committed to working with—and for—First Nations people and the communities they live in.

In the 13 years since our founding, FNIGC has endeavoured to serve First Nations in a multiplicity of ways, whether it’s conducting our unique survey initiatives with First Nations communities, publishing data-based survey reports, writing research papers, creating knowledge translation and outreach initiatives, forging strategic partnerships, or developing innovative and game-changing data sovereignty projects. Whether it’s grassroots or high-concept, FNIGC has always been dedicated to ensuring that our work aligns with First Nations values and priorities.

And I believe we wouldn’t have been able to do any of this if we didn’t take the time to listen to First Nations and ensure that what they are telling us is reflected in our work.

When I think of FNIGC, I think of a multi-disciplined team of intelligent and dedicated individuals who have come together to support a very unique and important mandate, to help fulfill the vision that every First Nation will achieve data sovereignty in alignment with its distinct world view.

I count myself very lucky to have been chosen to lead this incredible team of passionate and talented individuals as we move FNIGC forward.

I invite you to join me as I walk this path and welcome me into a dialogue if we happen to meet in the months ahead. I look forward to listening and learning.