Rectifying Genocidal Data Stewardship: A Commentary on Ethical and Legal Obligations for Sharing Data With Tribal Entities

Abstract

Access and the ability to work with Tribal data can vastly improve the ability of Tribal Nations to support their citizens’ health and well-being. In this commentary, we expand on previous calls for state and federal public health agencies to share data with Tribes by default. Previous research has described the legal and ethical lay of the land concerning public health data sharing while underscoring the importance of respect for Tribal sovereignty. In this commentary, we expand on this argument by proposing additional pathways through which data can benefit Tribes and identifying critical steps for Tribes to fully benefit from Tribal data. Specifically, we argue for (1) renewed interest and investment in Tribal data science education; (2) proactive data practices, laws, and policies that support long-term health and well-being; and (3) the federal government honoring its trust responsibility to support Tribal data resources.