Black History Month 2024
Unveiling the Future: My Journey as an African American Woman in AI
As we step into Black History Month, it’s a time to reflect not just on the past but on the paths we are paving for the future. My name is Kim Carson, and my journey as an African American woman in the field of AI has been both a challenge and an incredible adventure. It’s a story of breaking barriers, embracing creativity, and above all, a commitment to making a difference. This journey inspired me to establish Parallax Futures, a beacon of hope and innovation for those who dream of a more inclusive and diverse technological world.
My path wasn’t carved in the usual way. It sprang from a place of deep curiosity and a desire to blend the seemingly disparate worlds of technology and creative, non-technical thought. I remember a moment, back in my early career, when I realized that the field of AI was blossoming, yet it lacked the voices that truly represented the diverse fabric of our society. This moment was pivotal; it ignited a spark in me to build something new — something that would not only include but celebrate and elevate multidimensional diversity in AI.
The Inspiration Behind Parallax Futures
My journey into the world of AI was not just about technology; it was about people and perspectives. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the limitless possibilities of technology. However, I noticed a glaring gap in representation. The narratives and developments in AI were predominantly shaped by a homogenous group, leaving little room for the rich tapestry of diverse voices.
In founding Parallax Futures, I envisioned a platform where the unorthodox and the unconventional can find a voice in the realm of technology. It’s a bat signal like call to weirdos just like me. It is not only about building algorithms and coding; it is about constructing a new narrative in AI, one that is richly woven with the threads of diverse experiences, cultures, and thoughts. I want to challenge the status quo and create a space where creativity and technology converge, empowering those who are often sidelined in the tech narrative.
In the beginning of this year, we brought together our first group of fellows. The room buzzed with ideas of people of all ages, backgrounds and professional journeys — all eager to explore the world of AI with fresh eyes. Even though their backgrounds were as varied as their aspirations, they all shared a common goal: to redefine the future of technology. It continues to be a clear affirmation that our mission is not just necessary, it is vital.
Empowering Non-Technical Creatives through AI
The heart of Parallax Futures lies in its unique approach to AI — inviting non-technical, creative minds to engage with technology. I’ve always believed that true innovation in AI requires more than just technical prowess; it needs the touch of creativity, the flair of art, and the depth of diverse human experiences. Our fellowship program is designed to harness this.
We’ve seen incredible transformations occur when artists, writers, and thinkers who never imagined they could contribute to AI begin to engage with it. One such instance was with a DJ and philosopher, who initially felt out of place in the world of algorithms and data. However, as he learned to apply his creative process to AI, he started seeing patterns and possibilities that purely technical minds often overlooked. His fresh perspective led to the development of an AI program that could assist in creating more emotionally resonant music and spaces to enjoy it.
Another memorable story is of a young poet who joined our program. She was skeptical at first, unsure of how her skills could intersect with AI. But as she delved into the nuances of language processing, she found a new way to express her art. She helped develop a new algorithm that could understand and replicate poetic structures, bringing a new dimension to machine learning.
These stories are not just anecdotes; they are testaments to the untapped potential that lies in the intersection of AI and human creativity. By empowering these diverse voices, we’re not just building more inclusive AI; we’re building AI that is truly reflective of our collective experience.
The Historical Necessity of Black Voices in Technical Spaces
Our need for Black voices in technology is not just a contemporary issue; it is rooted in a rich and often troubling history. Throughout the annals of time, African Americans have made significant yet often unrecognized contributions to technology and innovation. Recognizing and celebrating these contributions is crucial to understanding the full potential of diversity in technology.
One of the earliest examples is the Ishango bone, dating back 20,000 years, a testament to early mathematical ingenuity. Fast forward to more recent history, and we find trailblazers like Benjamin Banneker, an African American polymath, whose work in astronomy and surveying in the 18th century laid foundations for future technological advancements. In the 20th century, innovators like Katherine Johnson, a mathematician whose calculations were vital to NASA’s space missions, broke both gender and racial barriers in technology.
These historical (and sometimes hidden) figures are not just part of Black history; they are integral to the history of technological innovation. Their stories demonstrate the profound impact that diversity of thought and background can have on technological progress. They remind us why we must continue to break barriers and ensure that Black voices are not only heard but are leading in the field of AI and technology.
Reflecting on these histories strengthens my resolve with Parallax Futures. It’s a reminder of the responsibility we carry — not just to innovate, but to ensure our innovations are inclusive, representative, and inspired by the diverse tapestry of human experiences.
Looking Ahead: The Future of AI with Diverse Inclusion
The future of AI, as I envision it, is not just about technological breakthroughs; it’s about breakthroughs in inclusivity, representation, and social impact. AI, with its vast potential, can either perpetuate existing disparities or become a powerful tool for social equity — the path it takes depends on us. At Parallax Futures, we are committed to steering it towards the latter.
In the coming years, I foresee AI evolving into a field that not only welcomes but thrives on diversity. This means creating AI systems that are not just technically sound but are culturally aware and socially responsible. It’s about building AI that understands and reflects the nuances of human emotions, cultural contexts, and ethical considerations.
For this vision to become a reality, it requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders in the AI ecosystem — from educators and policymakers to technologists and community leaders. We must work together to dismantle barriers, foster inclusive environments, and encourage diverse talents to take the helm in AI innovation.
My call to action is not just to those already in the field of AI, but to anyone who believes in the power of technology to create a better world. Join us in this journey of transformation. Whether you are an artist, a writer, a teacher, or simply someone with a passion for change, your perspective is vital in shaping a future where AI is a force for good.
Visit parallaxfutures.org to learn more.
