The Black Data Collective is a groundbreaking initiative to leverage the power of data to drive positive change within Black communities across Canada.
We will do this by gathering support, bringing together diverse experts, and focusing on ideas that can bring real progress to fight against unfair treatment, improve social conditions, and enhance economic opportunities. We believe using data effectively is crucial for positively changing the Black community.
Our inaugural project at the Black Data Collective tackles the crucial task of creating clear guidelines for all Canadians on how to approach and collect data within the Black community. This initiative is grounded in the principle of decolonizing data, emphasizing reciprocity.
By setting up national standards, we strive to make sure that data collection truly reflects the diverse and nuanced experiences of Black individuals.
This effort aligns with our overarching mission to combat Anti-Black Racism by addressing the root issues tied to insufficient or biased data. Through this initiative, we aim to empower Canadians with the tools and understanding needed to collect data respectfully and accurately, fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.
Key desired outcomes include
Black-Led Collective of Experts:
The initiative aspires to cultivate a collective of predominantly Black experts, who excel in the field of data collection, research, community development etc. This collective will serve as a valuable resource for the Black community, providing expertise and support for impactful initiatives.
Strategic Planning for Impactful Ideas:
The initiative aims to formulate a strategic plan that prioritizes ideas capable of making a broad impact and delivering tangible progress. This prioritization process will guide the collective's efforts, ensuring that initiatives are impactful and aligned with the overall goals of the Black Data Collective.
The Black Data Collective incorporates the Seven Cooperative Principles as well as the seven African Centred Principles of the Nguzo Saba in all elements of our work
Voluntary and Open Membership
Democratic Member Control
Member Economic Participation
Autonomy and Independence
Education, Training, and Information
Cooperation among Cooperatives
Concern for Community
Umoja (Unity)
To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race.
Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
To build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together.
Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
To build and maintain our community together and make our brother's and sister's problems our problems and to solve them together.
Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves.
Imani (Faith)
To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
Nia (Purpose)
To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.
Kuumba (Creativity)
To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.