From March 4-5, 2025, the National Indian Health Board (NIHB) hosted the 2025 Tribal Health Data Symposium (THDS) in Washington, D.C. This biannual gathering brought together Tribal leaders, policy experts, public health professionals, and government agencies to explore how data can advance health equity and strengthen Tribal sovereignty. More than 150 attendees joined in person, with 500 virtual participants each day!
Key Themes & Takeaways
- Advancing Tribal Data Sovereignty – Discussions focused on barriers to federal data access, Tribal governance over health data, and ensuring Indigenous communities control their own narratives.
- Reforming Tribal Health Data Infrastructure – Panelists examined systemic challenges in federal data-sharing policies, racial misclassification, and the lack of AI/AN-specific dashboards for real-time public health insights.
- Empowering Communities Through Indigenous Evaluation – Sessions highlighted culturally grounded approaches to data collection and research, ensuring that AI/AN communities define success on their own terms.
- Using Data to Identify Gaps and Solutions – Experts explored disparities in AI/AN health, from chronic disease to maternal health, emphasizing the need for stronger data-driven policies and funding.
- Building Tribal Data Workforce Capacity – Presenters emphasized the importance of investing in Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), training epidemiologists, and creating sustainable career pathways in health data.
As NIHB Interim CEO A.C. Locklear (Lumbee) said in his opening remarks, “Data, at its heart, is storytelling… How are we using our data to tell the stories of our peoples’ strengths? How do we tell the story of not only where we’ve been or where we are, but the future we intend to create?“
Events like the Tribal Health Data Symposium are critical spaces for Indigenous leaders to reclaim ownership of their health data, advocate for policy changes, and build collaborative solutions that reflect the unique needs of AI/AN communities. By convening Tribal health advocates, researchers, and policymakers, the symposium fosters action-oriented discussions that drive meaningful improvements in data access, infrastructure, and public health outcomes. Building on the momentum of the symposium, NIHB is committed to continuing the dialogue and efforts initiated during the event. We encourage you all to stay engaged and collaborate on initiatives that promote a Tribally-driven, culturally-grounded approach to health data.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants, presenters, and partners who contributed to the success of the 2025 Tribal Health Data Symposium. Your dedication and insights are invaluable as we work together to enhance the health and well-being of our communities. We’re also grateful for Kauffman and Associates, Inc., NextGen Healthcare, and the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board/Northwest Tribal Epidemiology Center for their support in making this symposium possible!
