Re-Thinking Event Names: How What We Call It Shapes Public Trust

The way we talk about data events matters—more than most people realize. When teams work together to solve real-world problems using large datasets, the name of the event can either open doors or shut them. A simple word choice can spark fear, even when the event is about collaboration, innovation, and responsible data use. “Hackathon” is one of those words. It sounds fast, intense, and creative—but in the public mind, “hack” means breaking into systems, stealing data, or causing damage. That’s not what these events are about. And when people hear “health data research,” they often jump to the idea of a breach, even if there’s no threat. That fear doesn’t just make people nervous—it blocks trust and stops them from getting involved.

We’ve seen this time and again. People don’t just assume the term “hackathon” means something dangerous. They ask, “Is my data safe?” before they’ll even consider participating. That hesitation isn’t about the work—it’s about the word. Language shapes how people feel. If a name carries a negative tone, it sets a tone of suspicion from the start. That’s especially true when the work involves sensitive data, like medical records or personal behavior patterns. The goal isn’t to hide behind jargon or avoid the word “data.” It’s to be clear, honest, and reassuring. And that starts with naming.

Why Naming Matters in Data Events

• “Hackathon” triggers fear – The word “hack” is deeply tied to cyberattacks in public memory. Even when events are peaceful, creative, and ethical, the term instantly activates concern about data breaches.
• Public perception drives participation – People don’t just react to content—they react to language. If a name sounds risky, they’ll avoid it, even if the project is safe and beneficial.
• Better names build trust – Terms like “Datathon” or “Code Fest” focus on data and creativity without the negative baggage of “hack.” They signal openness, transparency, and responsibility.

Choosing a name isn’t just about sounding cool. It’s about making sure people understand what’s happening—and feel safe doing so. When we name events with care, we don’t just change the label. We change how people see the work, how they engage with it, and how much they trust it. In the end, trust isn’t built in labs or code—it starts with how we talk about what we do.