11/05/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Inuit in British Columbia to Shape Future of Data Governance in Community-Led Gatherings
VANCOUVER, BC – The Inuit Collective Society of BC, in association with host Stephanie Papik, announces a series of one in-person and two online gatherings for Inuit living in British Columbia to co-create a framework for Inuit data governance. These sessions are a powerful opportunity for community members to connect, celebrate Inuit culture, and actively contribute to a future where Inuit in BC are visible, vocal, and thriving.
The events, designed by Inuit for Inuit, will focus on self-governance and the critical role of data in securing better outcomes for Inuit communities and families. Discussions will address how community-led data practices can strengthen access to essential services like non-insured health benefits, counseling, and culturally relevant supports for children.
"This collective work is about actively informing policies so they benefit, and do not harm, our community," says Stephanie Papik, the event host and a Fellow at the UBC School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. "It is an act of self-determination and relational ethics to ensure data serves our people. Your voice in this process is power."
The in-person gathering on November 5th will be a full-day event grounded in cultural practice, featuring Inuit games, songs, and country food. The day will conclude with a tour of the Museum of Anthropology to view Inuit cultural objects and art.
These engagement sessions are a critical step toward ensuring that Inuit have a decisive voice in what data is collected and how their stories are told. As a gesture of respect and gratitude for their time, knowledge, and lived experience, a small honorarium will be provided to participants upon completion of the session and an evaluation.
Event Details
In-Person Gathering: Vancouver
Date: November 5, 2025
Details: A full day of cultural connection, food, and discussion.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1735854420299?aff=oddtdtcreator
Online Gathering 1
Date: November 13, 2025
Details: An accessible online session for community input.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1740106057059?aff=oddtdtcreator
Online Gathering 2
Date: November 16, 2025
Details: A final accessible online session for community input.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1770192024999?aff=oddtdtcreator
To ensure accessibility, bus tickets and paid parking are available for the in-person event. Honoria will be offered to Inuit who attend a session and fill out an evaluation form.
About the Organizers
This series is hosted by Stephanie Papik in association with the Inuit Collective Society of BC, an organization dedicated to creating a vital and supportive network for Inuit in the province of British Columbia. For more information and to connect with the community, visit bcmiut.ca. The events are made possible by a grant from The Circle Way and supported by a Fellowship from the UBC School of Public Policy and Global Affairs.
The organizers recognize, honor, and uphold the inherent rights and title of First Nations across British Columbia. As guests on these lands, they commit to respectfully following the protocols of the First Peoples whose territories they live and gather on, and to walking alongside them with deep respect and a shared purpose of supporting the health and social justice needs of all Indigenous peoples.
Media Contact
Stephanie Papik
Fellow, UBC School of Public Policy and Global Affairs
[email protected]
250-882-2773
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