Refusing the Diversity Problem: Liberalism, Genomics, and Indigenous Critique with Dr. Jessica Kolopenuk

The “genomic diversity problem” in the field of medical genetics and precision health research reflects an enduring colonial logic tied to liberal identity/difference politics, which prioritize inclusion and representation over substantive engagement with Indigenous sovereignties on their own terms. This paper critiques diversity initiatives in genomics, arguing that they perpetuate colonial structures by framing Indigeneity through liberal identity/difference politics of representation. Instead, it calls for Indigenous-led genomic governance that centers local sovereignties and relationalities moving beyond the reductive politics of inclusion to transform knowledge production.