Embracing Open Access and Ensuring Indigenous Knowledge and Data Sovereignty

The closing keynote presentation was given by Camille Callison, a member of the Tlingit nation, who emphasised the importance of open access and equitable knowledge sharing. She highlighted the significance of indigenous knowledge, rooted in land connection and cultural heritage, and the need for respectful engagement with communities. Callison discussed the formation of the National Indigenous Knowledge and Language Alliance and the challenges of decolonising knowledge. She stressed the principles of ownership, control, access, and possession (OCAP) and the importance of proper cultural context and protocols. Callison also mentioned the role of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Canada and the need for culturally appropriate access to indigenous knowledge.