In efforts to build education and research capacity, D4I TDR worked with the Duke Clinical Research Institute (DCRI) to create a widely available resource from the perspective of Indigenous scientists: short videos on related topics. We contracted with Complex Stories, a visual storytelling and content creation firm where 4 topics were selected: What is a tribal data repository, data management and sharing, consent, and contracts. We chose these topics because these are instrumental to the work we do here at D4I to uphold and educate others on Indigenous Data Sovereignty. Visit our YouTube channel
Interviews of the D4I TDR team were conducted so that Indigenous and allied voices were highlighted. This also provided team members the opportunity to share from their own perspective why this work matters. Collectively, these interviews reveal why it’s important to support and protect Tribes and Indigenous communities’ research interests through the use of culturally informed approaches that champion Tribal sovereignty
You’ll notice in these videos the gorgeous animations by Maddie Sanders. Maddie is known professionally as Holatte (ho-lah-tee) and is a muralist/graphic artist from Tahlequah, Oklahoma. “Holatte” means “blue” in Mvskoke, a color that has always held profound significance for Maddie. Blue represents the sky, water, and natural elements—forces that inspire her work and fuel her creativity.
Image from Data Management and Sharing video, art by Holatte
The narrator of the videos is Karina Hernandez-Hernandez, highlighting Indigenous voices for the stories. Karina is a PhD student at Arizona State University where she is conducting research on the ethical and structural implications of artificial intelligence in precision oncology care and research for Indigenous people in Dr. Krystal Tsosie’s lab. Karina believed working with Complex Stories offered an opportunity to improve scientific communication and broaden access to concepts such as data, data-ownership, and data-stewardship so that Indigenous communities may exercise their rights with well informed decisions. This aligns with her future of a shift that moves us towards valuing creative, ethical, community-led and culturally grounded research approaches that respect Indigenous Data Sovereignty.
Like how oral tradition relies on generational thinking, we have created our videos with the intent of them being used for educational resources for Tribal educators with future generations. Let us know on social media how you’re using the videos, whether in the classroom, training workshops, or the local chapter house meeting!