Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have long been the stewards of their culture and Country, yet the journey to reclaim control over Indigenous Data (ID) has been riddled with challenges. From colonial exploitation to legislative gaps, Indigenous communities continue to face barriers in managing and protecting their cultural heritage. In response, The Keeping Place (TKP) emerges as a beacon of change, championing Indigenous Data Sovereignty (IDSov) and Indigenous Data Governance (IDGov) through its innovative platform.
At its core, TKP is more than just a software solution; it’s a manifestation of Indigenous empowerment. Developed by Traditional Owners in the Pilbara region and extended to other jurisdictions, TKP offers a secure, culturally conscious digital platform for housing Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) and managing Country in alignment with community-based rules and protocols.
Through TKP, Traditional Owner Groups gain autonomy over their ICIP, facilitating ongoing business management and the restoration of data sovereignty. By integrating best practice principles of IDSov and IDGov, TKP empowers communities to control the creation, collection, access, and use of their data, ensuring it reflects Indigenous priorities, values, and worldviews.
With the implementation of IDSov and IDGov, TKP sets the standard for data governance in Aboriginal communities. Its six Data and Cultural Governance Guidelines ensure that cultural considerations, data security, and privacy are prioritised, fostering a safe and respectful environment for knowledge sharing.
As custodians of cultural heritage, TKP not only supports Traditional Owners in protecting their ICIP but also advocates for self-determination and informed decision-making. By upholding principles of free, prior, and informed consent, TKP enables Aboriginal communities to navigate the complexities of data management with confidence.
In a world where Indigenous voices are often marginalised, TKP stands as a testament to the resilience and sovereignty of Aboriginal peoples. Through collaboration, education, and technological innovation, TKP paves the way for a future where Indigenous Data Sovereignty is not just a dream but a reality.
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