Multi-Nation Collaboration on IRS Records

Project Overview

Research efforts focused on Indigenous communities should prioritize collaboration with them, reflecting the profound importance of Indigenous Data Sovereignty, especially when examining Indian Residential Schools (IRS) and Indian Hospitals (IH). Tkʼemlúps, Nadleh Whut’en, Lax Kw’alaams, Ahousaht, Williams Lake, Stó:lō, and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw are collaboratively developing a data governance model for records from Indian Residential Schools and Indian Hospitals located on their lands. 

The cross-community project aims to establish shared definitions and assessing risks associated with IRS and IH records, particularly those containing personal information. These records, held by the government and various third parties, play a crucial role in reuniting families and preserving their histories.

As part of the initiative, the project will conduct workshops with five lead project managers to foster dialogue on data governance, permissions, and the development of a collaborative platform for safe and respectful research. Additionally, the pilot will involve the five communities sharing public data from three IRS, laying a strong foundation for a collective journey forward. 

Together, the communities can make a meaningful impact to support more secure and collaborative use of sensitive archival records and strengthen Indigenous control over how these records are governed, accessed, and interpreted.