The Black Artificial Intelligence (AI) Optimist Column

The Black AI Optimist Column Part IV: The Role of Civil Rights Groups and Minority Serving Entities

As we conclude our series on artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on multicultural communities, it’s crucial to underscore the vital role that civil rights and other minority serving organizations like the Multicultural Media, Telecom and Internet Council (MMTC) must play in shaping an equitable AI future.  Law makers and industry leaders will continue to navigate the complex landscape of AI development and regulation.  Ideally, the right balance of innovation and mindfulness of inclusion and equity will be present at every checkpoint of this long and ongoing expedition.  Civil rights advocates serve as essential watchdogs, partners, and catalysts for change in the effort to bring reality as close to the ideal as possible.

One of the primary responsibilities of civil rights groups in the AI era is to act as vigilant watchdogs, monitoring the development and deployment of AI systems for potential biases, discrimination, and harmful impacts on marginalized communities.  By conducting research, gathering data, and amplifying the experiences of those most affected by AI disparities, organizations can shed light on the unintended consequences and systemic inequities perpetuated by unchecked AI.  Because of the proximity to and existence within these communities, minority serving institutions will have the best vantage point to witness, and when possible, help remedy some of the potential harms that may come from AI. 

Armed with this knowledge, civil rights advocates can hold the relevant companies, government agencies, and other AI stakeholders accountable for their actions and demand meaningful change.  Through public advocacy campaigns to shine a light on the issues, legal action, and policy recommendations, minority serving institutions can pressure decision-makers to prioritize fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI development and deployment.

As outlined in the previous installment of The Black AI Optimist, MMTC is currently tracking several AI bills and reaching out to Congress when appropriate to support and educate them on their potential impacts.  MMTC intends to continue this work moving forward.  MMTC also will collaborate with likeminded institutions where possible, as we have always done, to amplify our voice to make the biggest impact.

While serving as watchdogs is crucial, civil rights groups must also proactively engage as partners in the development of inclusive AI solutions.  By collaborating with tech companies, research institutions, and policymakers, and other organizations, minority serving institutions can ensure that the perspectives and needs of multicultural communities are integrated into the AI design process from the ground up.

This partnership can take many forms, such as:

By fostering constructive collaboration and knowledge-sharing, civil rights groups can help steer AI innovation towards more equitable and inclusive outcomes.  MMTC has been and will continue to engage on these issues.  MMTC was appointed as a member of the Federal Communications Commission’s 12th Consumer Advisory Committee (“CAC”).  The 12th CAC is focused on identifying the uses of AI and protecting consumers from unwanted robocalls, robotexts and other harms, as well as enabling those with disabilities to make calls.  The CAC held a vote approving the final recommendations on September 24, 2024

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