Indigenous self-determination and data governance in the Canadian policy context

In a time of declared reconciliation, deeply rooted systemic barriers continue to have an impact on the lives of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Decades of research have led to reports and recommendations on how best to address nation-to-nation relationship renewal between First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples and the government of Canada. There is a strong consensus that Indigenous data governance leads to nation rebuilding. This chapter highlights some Indigenous-led health and data initiatives that are lighting the way toward Indigenous Data Sovereignty while exploring some of the policies and legislative bureaucracy that continues to hinder the mobilization and full implementation of Indigenous data governance in Canada.