Data impacts our lives more each day, for better and worse. Data can help or harm communities, empower or exclude people. The power and potential of data rest with those who decide how data is collected, governed, and used. For too long, people and communities most affected have had little say in these decisions. This must change.
A new Data Values Advocates program will support grassroots and community activists to lead a global movement to create a fair data future for all. The program will support those most affected by today's unequal dynamics to be at the forefront of shaping tomorrow’s data systems.
The program is a core part of a global Data Values campaign, launching in September at the 77th United Nations General Assembly. Over the past year, 350 people from 63 countries have come together to develop a shared vision and manifesto for change on data, equity and accountability through the Data Values Project. The campaign will call for action to make this vision a reality.
The program will provide training, funding, and support to six individuals working at the grassroots level to become Data Values Advocates. Advocates will be supported to define their areas of interest and co-develop a year-long work plan for the program, running from November 2022 until November 2023. They will lead and shape prominent communications, advocacy activities, and events - including joining the Global Partnership's Festival De Datos in person. They will also create pathways for others to engage in the campaign.
The program is open to grassroots and community activists eager to learn more about the harms and opportunities of data and push for change. Prior experience or expertise with data is not required. Instead, the program is for people with a background in community engagement, mobilization, or activism and an interest in the data values agenda. We especially encourage participation from those from or working with communities that face marginalization.
The program is open to individuals based anywhere in the world. Advocates should be comfortable communicating in English to support coordination and collaboration. The program aims to be as inclusive as possible, including offering a monthly honorarium for Advocates’ time and efforts and accessibility support; more details are available in the applicant information pack.
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by midnight EDT, October 2, 2022.
Please read the information pack and then complete a short online application form. The cohort will be finalized by early November. An intersectional lens will be applied to the cohort makeup, considering factors such as geography, disability status, age, and gender.
The Data Values Advocates program is coordinated by the Global Partnership and supported by Sightsavers. For any questions, please get in touch with us.
Please explore the Data Values web hub and sign up for updates if you are interested in joining the campaign.