Ensuring Representation and Eliminating Bias in Artificial Intelligence

WHEREAS, Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents a significant advancement in technology, influencing various sectors including healthcare, education, labor, criminal justice, media, and electioneering, with the potential to reshape these fields dramatically; and 

WHEREAS, AI refers to the development of computer systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, including but not limited to recognizing speech, making decisions, and identifying patterns; and 

WHEREAS, AI technologies use algorithms and machine learning to analyze vast amounts of data and make autonomous decisions based on that analysis, impacting a wide range of industries and everyday human activities; and 

WHEREAS, AI systems are fundamentally shaped by the data they are trained on, which if not carefully curated, can lead to the perpetuation of existing biases and the creation of new forms of discrimination generated by programs; and 

WHEREAS, African Americans historically have been underrepresented in the data sets used for training AI, leading to less accurate and fair outcomes in services and interventions directed toward black communities; and 

WHEREAS, AI presents new challenges in the form of misrepresentation, cultural appropriation, and the diminution of the contributions made by actual Black creatives, thereby undermining genuine cultural authenticity, social impact, and economic viability; and 

WHEREAS, The ethical implications of using AI to depict Black people in creative works include concerns over consent, consideration, and the perpetuation of stereotypes and narrative distortions, necessitating vigilant oversight and advocacy; and 

WHEREAS, The NAACP recognizes the critical need to ensure that AI technologies promote inclusivity and equity, particularly in protecting the civil rights of African Americans and ensuring their fair representation in AI-driven processes; and 

WHEREAS, The Youth and College division have a particular interest in AI technology and ensuring that African American College aged and youth are not adversely impacted by AI technologies and intend to be involved in advocacy efforts related to AI. 

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the NAACP will advocate to policy makers and endorse legislation that mandates the comprehensive inclusion of diverse data sets that adequately represent African Americans to mitigate bias in AI algorithms across all sectors. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in the area of healthcare, the NAACP will advocate that AI developments prioritize the reduction of health disparities by ensuring that diagnostic tools, treatment protocols, and healthcare management systems are equally effective across all racial and ethnic groups. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in education, the NAACP will advocate that AI applications enhance learning outcomes for African American students through tailored educational technologies that address diverse learning needs and do not reinforce existing educational inequalities. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the NAACP will advocate that AI-driven initiatives in career development, job placement, job seeking individuals, and other human resources issues should be transparent and provide equal opportunities, ensuring that career advising, job matching, and professional development tools to support the aspirations of African Americans. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that within the criminal justice system, the NAACP will advocate that AI must be governed by strict regulations that prevent the reinforcement of racial biases and/or misidentification in policing, sentencing, and parole processes, with an emphasis on transparency and accountability. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the NAACP will advocate for the development and enforcement of guidelines and policies that protect the rights of Black storytellers, actors or actresses, other creatives, and the entire Black community against unauthorized exploitation and misrepresentation by AI in the arts, media, and entertainment industries. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the NAACP will advocate against the use of AI and machine learning technologies in housing, lending, financial, and any decision-making processes that risk perpetuating historical injustices and disparities faced by the Black community.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NAACP will advocate for the establishment and strengthening of a social safety net, including unemployment insurance, education and retraining programs, and other support services for workers displaced by AI, ensuring that the economic security of the Black community is safeguarded during transitions in the labor market. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NAACP demands rigorous oversight and regular auditing by government entities of AI systems to ensure they do not perpetuate racial bias or infringe on the civil rights of African Americans. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NAACP will create content and forums to educate members and the public on the dangers of 'mis' and 'dis' information, which is perpetuated through generative AI tools and have the potential to undermine the political power of African American communities. 

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, the NAACP commits to monitoring the development and implementation of AI technologies, collaborating with technologists, policymakers, and community leaders to ensure that the benefits of AI are shared equitably among all Americans, particularly the African American community.