Facial Recognition

WHEREAS, facial recognition is defined as computer programs that analyze images of human faces for the purpose of identifying them there have been efforts in Congress to regulate and restrict facial recognition and biometric technology and facial recognition data is often collected without the informed consent of the individual, creating opportunities for the unauthorized surveillance and monitoring; and

WHEREAS, the use of facial recognition technology has expanded without sufficient oversight standards being put in place, especially for law enforcement; and

WHEREAS, the mechanisms for facial recognition software are rarely revealed because of proprietary status and intellectual property law; and

WHEREAS, current studies on facial recognition software show extreme gender and racial bias, a shocking prevalence of racist misidentification of "Black and Brown people", and the use of prejudicial algorithms and harmful stereotypes that can lead to consequences for those misidentified; and

WHEREAS, three tech companies have pulled facial recognition product from the market, and

WHEREAS, current federal law would not prevent data from being shared with third parties, thus opening it up to mining, monetization, and malicious misuse; and

WHEREAS, the implementation of facial recognition software also impairs the privacy of working through compelled consent to the submission and use of their biometric data.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the NAACP reaffirms and supports the call for a ban on the use of facial recognition technologies for criminal investigation.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, the NAACP seek a ban on biometric surveillance, including facial recognition in schools.