Mawkim.org

Data tells a story — but to read it well, we need to understand where it comes from and what it represents. This section introduces the core ideas behind Mi’kmaw data governance, from data sovereignty and OCAP® principles to the spirit carried within the information we collect. It’s the starting point for understanding how knowledge, culture, and evidence come together in respectful balance.


Mi’kmaw Ethics Watch (MEW), known in Mi’kmaw as Eskinuapimk, is a research review body. It is also a protector of knowledge, a safeguard for our stories, and a commitment to future generations.


True sovereignty depends on skills, confidence, and connection. Capacity Building explores how communities are growing their ability to collect, interpret, and protect their own data through programs like Mawkim’s Data Literacy Training and Regional Data Centre development. These resources share ways to strengthen local leadership, bridge knowledge systems, and build data practices grounded in Mi’kmaw values.

    • Bundles coming soon

  • Bundles coming soon


Common Questions

Mawkim (Data Governance & Regional Data Centre) – Frequently Asked Questions

Mawkim manages regional data collection through projects like the Regional Health Survey (RHS) and Regional Social Survey (RSS). It also supports the development of a Mi’kmaw Regional Data Centre — a place for communities to safely access and manage their own data.

In Mi’kmaw, mawkim means “to count and record.” Mawkim is the Data Governance branch of the Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq (UNSM), responsible for administering surveys, data collection, and research across Mi’kmaw communities in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.

Mawkim coordinates national and regional surveys including:

  • First Nations Regional Health Survey (RHS)

  • Regional Social Survey (RSS)

  • Regional Early Childhood, Education and Employment Survey (FNREEES)

  • First Nations Labour and Employment Development Survey (FNLEDS)

When data is collected and interpreted through a Mi’kmaw lens, it supports better health programs, education strategies, language revitalization, and governance decisions — all rooted in community priorities.

Data Sovereignty means Mi’kmaw people have the right to own, control, access, and protect their data — ensuring it is used to serve community priorities and values. It’s rooted in the OCAP® Principles: Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession.

Each participating community recruits local fieldworkers and researchers. If you’d like to get involved, contact your community’s health centre or email Data@unsm.org to learn about current opportunities.

All data is stored securely under Mi’kmaw governance. Access is limited, consent-based, and managed under OCAP® standards to ensure community control and privacy.

Access depends on the data type and purpose. Communities, researchers, and organizations can request access through secure channels. Requests are reviewed to ensure they align with Mi’kmaw ethical and governance standards.

Mi’kmaw Ethics Watch (MEW) – Frequently Asked Questions

You must submit a MEW Amendment Form for any change to methods, collaborators, funding, or consent procedures. This ensures ongoing compliance with ethical standards.

Timelines vary based on project complexity and community engagement. Most reviews take 4–8 weeks, depending on completeness of the application and any follow-up required by reviewers.

Some projects are exempt, including undergraduate coursework, classroom-based research, or studies that don’t involve Mi’kmaw participants, data, or collective knowledge. You can submit a MEW Research Exemption Form to confirm exemption status.

Researchers must complete the MEW Application Form and email it to MEW@unsm.org. The form includes sections for project details, consent processes, community consultation, and risk management. Templates and guidance are available on the Mawkim website.

You need MEW review if your project involves Mi’kmaw knowledge, culture, arts, spirituality, or traditions, or if it could affect Aboriginal or Treaty Rights. This includes research with Mi’kmaw communities, Elders, or traditional knowledge holders.

Mi’kmaw Ethics Watch is the body responsible for reviewing research involving Mi’kmaw people, knowledge, culture, and land. MEW ensures that all research is done ethically, respectfully, and in line with Mi’kmaw community protocols.