Advancing equity with data collection

Ensuring data collection is representative of everyone living in British Columbia is a pillar of the Provincial Data Plan (PDF, 3.4 MB). The Province is developing new guidance for data policies and standards. Learn how data collection is evolving in B.C.

On this page

• Inclusive data collection
• Key actions
• Project example: Collecting gender and sex data
• Next up: Indigenous reconciliation
• Contact us

Inclusive data collection

To provide the services people need, at the right time, and in the right way, B.C. needs data that is:

• Accurate
• Reliable
• Representative

We collect substantial amounts of information. Current data management practices can be improved to reveal the unique identities and needs of our population. Bias and inequities in our programs and services that cannot be measured may go unchecked.

Changes in the way the government collects and uses people’s data are needed. We are starting with developing clear guidance in data policies and standards for data collection that is:

• Culturally safe
• Minimizes harm
• Respects the people it is about

The Province is working In partnership with Indigenous Peoples and racialized communities. Through the Anti-Racism Data Act, the Province has begun the work of collecting intersectional demographic data such as:

• Age
• Gender identity
• Ethnicity

This data will help break down barriers and better identify interconnected issues such as:

• Economic status
• Employment
• Gender-based violence
• Outcomes in health care

Key actions:

• Develop and publish the Gender and Sex Data Standard (PDF, 191KB) and Guidelines (PDF, 280KB)
• Establish cross-government research projects that use data to reveal systemic inequities and enable better policies, programs and services – there are examples of projects underway in the Data Innovation Program
• Field a voluntary survey to better understand the diverse population of B.C. through the collection of demographic data
• Analyze government program data through an intersectional lens and with population demographics to uncover systemic racism and build stronger services for everyone in B.C.

Project example: Collecting gender and sex data

In 2016, the BC Human Rights Code was amended to protect gender identity and expression. Since then the Province has worked to make its systems and services more inclusive. Implementation of the Gender and Sex Data Standard (PDF, 160KB), using the Standard’s supporting Guidelines (PDF, 280KB), is a critical step in the right direction.

Gender and Sex refer to two different concepts and are not interchangeable.

• Sex is most often assigned at birth from a visual examination by a doctor or other health care provider, either as Male, Female, or Intersex.
• Gender refers to socially and culturally constructed roles, behaviours, and expressions. The current gender of people may or may not align with their sex assigned at birth.

For transgender and non-binary people, access to government-issued identification documents and services displaying their correct gender is significant; it recognizes people for who they are and reduces re-traumatization. Accurate gender and sex data is needed to:

• Inform important policy and program decisions
• Ensure equity in government program delivery for gender-diverse populations

Next up: Indigenous reconciliation

Learn more about how the Provincial Data Plan supports reconciliation.

Contact us

Open a service ticket for help with data policies, standards and guidelines. We can also provide guidance on data management and evidence-based decision making in your area.