Culture of Data 2025

This presentation delves into applying the Indigenous Social Determinants of Health when discussing the SDoH within Colorado. It will provide a high-level overview of CDPHE-specific examples of collaborative partnerships that respect Tribal sovereignty and Tribal data sovereignty rights and utilize best practices for engaging American Indian and Alaska Native communities. For example, we will highlight work with CDPHE's Baby & You program to provide strategic guidance and support with outreach. Outreach which has resulted in an increase in Native American and Alaska Native participation in comparison to previous survey participation.

Through these collaborations, we will demonstrate how incorporating practices that are sovereignty-affirming and mindful of Indigenous Determinants of Health can improve public health data systems. Our goal is to focus on how entities should have parameters set in place for Tribal data collection.

We will examine strategies that prioritize community involvement in every step of the process, ensuring that American Indian/Alaska Native voices remain at the center of health equity initiatives. Furthermore, we will explain the importance of braiding Indigenous determinants with SDoH when focusing on AIAN communities, which is currently not being considered in data collection. Moreover, we will touch on how data pertaining to the Indigenous determinants, which can transcend SDoH and reflect the holistic health perspectives valued by American Indian/Alaska Native populations. Throughout these discussions, our presentation addresses the importance of Tribal data sovereignty and the ethical considerations necessary for equitable partnerships along the way.

Ultimately, this presentation aims to foster an understanding of Indigenous social determinants of health and inspire action among attendees by emphasizing the importance of partnerships rooted in respect, trust, inclusion, and shared goals. By advancing innovative practices and promoting collaboration, it seeks to build a stronger foundation for Indigenous health equity initiatives grounded in cultural identity and Tribal sovereignty.