At the Clan Campbell Society (North America), we recognize that the genealogical and genetic data shared by our members is a sacred trust. Our research programs - including the Campbell DNA Project, our Genealogical Research, and our Historical Archives - are conducted with the highest ethical standards to ensure the accuracy and security of our shared history.
- Ethical Research: We operate as a scientific and educational resource, ensuring all genealogical findings are documented with academic rigor and integrity.
- Data Protection: We maintain a strict Privacy Policy regarding DNA and lineage data. Personal information of living individuals is never published without consent, and we never sell or trade member data to third-party commercial firms.
- Permanent Legacy: By centralizing these records under professional stewardship, we ensure that the lineages of our North American kinsfolk are preserved as a permanent, non-commercial resource for future generations of Campbells.
Records & Privacy Policy (Genealogy & DNA Research)
Article I: Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to protect the privacy of members and participants in the genealogy and DNA programs of the Clan Campbell Society (North America) while advancing the historical and scientific study of the Campbell lineage.
Article II: Collection of Data
The Society collects genealogical data (pedigrees, family group sheets) and DNA results solely for the purpose of historical research, lineage verification, and the promotion of Clan heritage.
Article III: Consent and Usage
- Voluntary Participation: Submission of genealogical or DNA data is strictly voluntary.
- Public vs. Private: Identifying information of living individuals (dates of birth, specific locations, etc.) will be redacted or withheld from public databases and the Clan Campbell Journal unless explicit written consent is provided.
- DNA Data: The Society does not "own" member DNA results. Participants in the Campbell DNA Project retain all rights to their genetic data and may request removal from Society-managed projects at any time.
Article IV: Security and Access
- Limited Access: Access to raw genealogical files and DNA project administrator tools is restricted to authorized volunteers (e.g., the Genealogist or DNA Project Coordinator). Access to online DNA data is fully controlled by the participant. See the FamilyTreeDNA Privacy Statement for more details.
- No Commercial Sale: Under no circumstances will the Society sell, rent, or trade member genealogical or genetic data to third-party marketing or commercial research firms.
Article V: Historical Record Preservation
In accordance with our Document Retention Policy, the Society may preserve genealogical records of deceased individuals as part of our permanent historical archives to ensure the Campbell legacy is maintained for future generations.