Identity Data Standards
In early 2026, government released two identity data standards and guidelines to support a more consistent approach to collecting, using and sharing Indigenous and racial identity information.
These standards will support the collection of high-quality and culturally safe demographic information. This will help identify systemic racism in government services and understand where they can be improved for everyone in B.C.
What are the data standards?
The identity data standards and guidelines provide direction on how ministries collect, use and share Indigenous and racial identity information. Standards help to reduce the risk of harm by outlining how and what to ask during data collection.
The Indigenous Identity Data Standard guides how to collect information about Indigenous identity in a way that recognizes the unique identities and distinct rights of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people and supports Indigenous data sovereignty and self-determination.
The Racial Identity Data Standard supports the collection of race-based identity data in a way that aligns with how people choose to identify, and respects diverse identities and how they can intersect.
These standards were created under the Anti-Racism Data Act to help deliver more equitable services and support ongoing research into systemic racism.
Why do we need standards to collect identity information?
Currently there are different approaches for collecting information about people’s identity across government. This means that people may be asked for the same information multiple times, in multiple different ways when they access government services.
This makes it challenging to compare data and understand who is using government services or where there are gaps and barriers.
These standards provide a more consistent way to collect information about Indigenous and racial identity. The guidelines work alongside the standards and outline key principles around data collection, use and sharing. This includes:
- Making sure there is clear purpose for collecting information, such as needing it to provide a service or for research
- Only collecting the minimum needed for that purpose
Together, the standards and guidelines support research into how systemic racism affects people’s lived experiences and help identify barriers to accessing services. With this information, we can make government services more equitable and inclusive.
Who helped to create the standards?
We developed the standards in consultation with Indigenous Peoples and with input from the Anti-Racism Data Committee. This feedback will help to reduce harms due to data collection.
As part of this work, we reviewed government’s current approach to collecting personal information, as well as responses from community engagement and the BC Demographic Survey. We also looked at how other organizations such as Statistics Canada ask people for information about their identity.
The standards reflect what we heard throughout this process and will likely shift over time to reflect the evolving nature of definitions, language, knowledge and experience.
Learn more
For more information about the identity data standards and how to use them visit: