Code of Ethics

This Tribal Research and Programming Code of Ethics sets essential guidelines for fostering meaningful, respectful and mutually beneficial partnerships with Tribal Nations in research, outreach and programming. It emphasizes the importance of ethics in collaboration to ensure that Tribal sovereignty, cultural perspectives and community needs are honored.

Inclusiveness

Developing partnerships with Tribal communities begins with active collaboration with Tribal leadership from the initial planning stages of any research or project. This early involvement:

• Ensures that authorized Tribal representatives have a voice in the planning and creation phases.
• Defines roles and responsibilities clearly to align with Tribal governance structures.
• Recognizes the right of Tribes to refuse participation if the project does not align with their community needs or priorities, thus respecting Tribal self-determination and consent.

Respect

A successful partnership is built on a foundation of respect for Tribal knowledge systems, cultural values and resources. This principle mandates:

• Acknowledging and valuing Tribal perspectives in shaping research methodologies and project frameworks.
• Safeguarding the community from harm, as defined by the Tribal community itself, which may entail adjustments to methodologies or project goals.
• Following protocols approved by the Tribal community to ensure the cultural integrity of all research activities.

Relational Approach

Projects with Tribal communities are appropriate only if they meet needs identified by the Tribal representatives. This relational approach includes:

• Ensuring projects provide direct benefit and are relevant to the Tribe's interests, creating a foundation for trust.
• Consulting with the community to confirm that the project aligns with its long-term goals, reinforcing a collaborative spirit.

Reciprocity

Mutual benefit and respect in information sharing are cornerstones of ethical Tribal engagement. This principle entails:

• Defining, from the start, how information will be shared, used and protected.
• Recognizing Tribal contributions to the research or project as a matter of respect and ethical practice.
• Consulting Tribal laws and research protocols early to guide data handling, project scope and the dissemination of findings, ensuring compliance with Tribal research procedures.

Each of these principles reinforces ethical collaboration, prioritizing transparency, respect for Tribal sovereignty and mutual benefit. This code of ethics aims to promote long-term, trust-based relationships that support the aspirations of both Tribal Nations and research or outreach institutions.