Join us on April 30, 2025, for this day-long virtual event to listen, learn, and collaborate. Together, we’ll co-create innovative pathways to leverage equity data for addressing othering and advancing belonging. Ver esta página en español
Equity-centered data is the foundation for creating a more inclusive and just society, ensuring that data collection, analysis, and decision-making processes include the needs of historically marginalized groups when setting goals for strong and inclusive communities. By focusing on equity, this approach actively seeks to uncover disparities and by amplifying the voices of those most affected by systemic inequalities, help build structures that ensure everybody thrives. Data—objective, measurable, and actionable—serves as a powerful tool to guide and refine these efforts.
What if we leverage the power of data not only to expose inequities but also to cultivate a sense of belonging? Belonging is a potent force—one that fosters connection, recognition, inclusion, and agency, especially in a world increasingly fractured along social and economic divides, and is. profoundly influenced by societal systems and structures. By analyzing data that reveals inequities within these systems, we can understand where and how disparities persist, and we can design tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of the most marginalized, ultimately fostering a more inclusive society for everyone. Collectively, we can identify opportunities for targeted interventions to uplift marginalized communities that have experienced historical othering, address disparities by setting universal goals, and reimagine a society where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.
The North American Equity Data Convening brings together researchers, practitioners, and institutions from across Canada, the United States, and Mexico to explore how data can advance social equity and belonging. Together, we’ll share practices, confront challenges, and showcase the transformative impact of data-driven approaches in addressing common social issues.
With the rise of right-wing authoritarianism worldwide and movements aimed at building both literal and figurative walls between neighbors in North America, access to equity data and the tools to mobilize it have never been more critical. Let’s talk about equity data—and the future it can help us shape!
This convening would benefit people and organizations working with data to address social equity issues, especially, but not limited, for these folks:
- Researchers and Academics
- Nonprofit and Community Leaders
- Policy Makers
- Data Practitioners
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Professionals
- Social Impact Innovators
- Equity and Inclusion Advocates
- Students and Emerging Leaders
- Anyone who might be interested in using the power of data and analysis to build a more inclusive and just society
What to expect:
- Engaging Panel Discussions: Hear from experts across North America on how data is being used to address social equity challenges.
- Insightful Case Studies: Learn about real-world applications of data to identify disparities, advance belonging, and drive systemic change.
- Collaborative Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded researchers, practitioners, and leaders dedicated to creating a more equitable society.
- Actionable Strategies and Tools: Discover data-driven methods and frameworks that can be applied to your own work.
- Interactive Q&A Sessions: Engage with panelists and ask questions tailored to your interests and challenges.
- A Platform for Co-Creation: Participate in discussions to share ideas, insights, and solutions for leveraging data in social impact efforts.
- Regional and Cross-Border Perspectives: Gain a comprehensive view of equity-related data practices in Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Panel themes and narratives
Panel 1: Harnessing Data for Social Justice
Data is a powerful tool in the struggle for a more just world. The systematic gathering and analysis of information from public records, testimonials, surveys and questionnaires – to name only some of the many possible sources – afford a variety of opportunities. Data gives us greater purchase on understanding the injustices and inequalities we face in the present and throughout history; data gives us a means of tracking progress (or lack thereof) in the wake of social movements and policy interventions; and it points the way towards a better future. But data is not a neutral category and making data is not a neutral act. What choices must we make in the effort to transform raw information into data, and data into insights? How do we make such choices with an eye toward a future where everyone belongs?
Panel 2: Innovating Equity Solutions with Data: From Insights to Action
Turning data insights into action requires tangible, measurable efforts that can drive positive change. Such efforts, though, have their fair share of complexities, including communicating the immediate and long-term potential impact of data work. What kinds of audiences do we normally have and what kinds of audiences do we need to envision? What kinds of impacts have we achieved through this work and what role should we play in shaping those impacts?
Panel 3: Navigating Challenges in Equity-Centered Data: Shaping the Future
In our increasingly data-dependent world, the demands of working with equity data have become increasingly complex and subject to rapid change. There are many challenges researchers, analysts and scholars deal with in their quest for knowledge – rescinding access to disaggregated data, misuse of AI tools, and skepticism of data-based outcomes. What do the near-term and long-term futures of equity data look like? How can we use emerging AI tools ethically and in service of the common good? What options do we have for finding and collecting data in the face of hostile forces both within and outside of the state?
