Artificial intelligence (AI) is showcasing its indispensable role in addressing a wide array of global challenges. However, it has come under scrutiny as research has uncovered that its facial recognition systems are liable to marginalize the black and brown community.
Algorithmic discrimination occurs when automated systems exhibit preferences for certain individuals based on their gender, race, color, or personality traits, resulting in unjust treatment of some individuals. Research, from IBM and others, show that machine learning algorithms, when trained on biased data, perpetuate algorithmic bias within AI systems.
For instance, AI’s facial analysis technology acts as a gatekeeper in various global job and security industries, assessing emotional intelligence in job applicants and facilitating mass surveillance for security measures. These groundbreaking AI applications are not immune to algorithmic bias against individuals with dark skin tones. Furthermore, they struggle to accurately identify and may even confuse the genders of dark-skinned individuals.
To dismantle the barriers of AI’s biased gaze, Black in AI, an initiative based in the United States, is striving to shift the narrative surrounding AI and steer it towards inclusivity. It aims to enhance the participation of Black professionals, around the world, in the realms of computer science and AI through sharing ideas, fostering collaborations, and discussing initiatives.
The perception of technology today may be influenced by the prevailing systemic injustices, but efforts from such initiatives can guide algorithms towards embracing more inclusive viewpoints, paving the way for the development of equitable AI solutions.
