The Data Toolkit supports health care organizations in building data practices that reflect values of trust, respect, and partnership with Black and Indigenous communities and contributes to our shared commitment to evidence-informed action on equity.
Download the Data Toolkit
Access the Data Toolkit to explore frameworks, templates, and actionable guidance to help your organization use data to create lasting, equitable change.
Download the Data Toolkit (PDF)
Anti-racism work is non-linear and continually evolving, and the resources shared here reflect what was available at the time of development. We encourage you and your teams to regularly revisit, expand, and update these materials as your anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism journey progresses, and to continue your learning by exploring related resources and emerging guidance.
What’s Inside the Data Toolkit
A step-by-step framework and practical tools for developing an ethical, consistent, and equity-driven approach to workforce data collection and analysis.
The toolkit includes:
- Guiding frameworks that align with Indigenous data sovereignty principles (OCAP®, distinctions-based approaches) and Black data ethics.
- Planning guides for establishing data collection objectives, scope, and governance structures.
- Templates and sample questions to support respectful, standardized demographic data collection practices.
- Privacy and consent resources to ensure transparency, safety, and voluntary participation.
- Data interpretation and reporting tools to help turn numbers into meaningful insight and action.
- Case examples demonstrating practical applications and learnings from partner organizations.
How Organizations Can Use the Data Toolkit
Utilize adaptable tools and frameworks that support both foundational and advanced stages of your organization’s workforce data collection journey.
Use the toolkit to:
- Conduct an equity readiness assessment before launching or revising data collection efforts.
- Engage Black and Indigenous staff, unions, and community partners in the design process.
- Develop clear communication plans that build employee trust and transparency.
- Use the provided reporting templates to track progress and share results internally and externally.
- Integrate findings into workforce planning, recruitment, and retention strategies.
By embedding equity-centered data practices, organizations strengthen their capacity for evidence-informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
Why Workforce Data Matters
When collected ethically and interpreted with care, workforce data helps organizations:
- Understand the current state of equity and inclusion.
- Identify systemic barriers and opportunities for improvement.
- Support transparency and accountability across leadership levels.
- Inform targeted strategies that strengthen belonging and fairness for all employees.
Data empowers health care leaders to take informed, measurable steps in creating safer, more inclusive workplaces that ultimately enhance patient care and organizational performance.