Artificial Intelligence
Without proper guardrails, algorithms can replicate or amplify existing harms by misusing personal data, worsening the spread of misinformation, and making improper digital surveillance far easier and faster to implement. Advancing Justice | AAJC works to ensure that all communities can reap the benefits of artificial intelligence and are protected from AI-driven bias and other negative externalities of these tools. We address the unique challenges AI technologies pose for immigrants, individuals with limited English proficiency, and Asian Americans across diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Community-Informed AI Governance: To ensure our advocacy reflects the lived experiences of those most affected by AI, Advancing Justice | AAJC conducted listening sessions with community members across the country, gathering firsthand perspectives on how these technologies are impacting their daily lives — from algorithmic surveillance and immigration enforcement to disparate impact in consequential decisions. This work has grounded our policy priorities and directly informed our efforts to support community partners in developing their own frameworks for AI governance. Read our report here:
AI-Driven Immigrant Surveillance: AI-powered systems enable unprecedented levels of surveillance that disproportionately harm vulnerable communities in our homes, workplaces, and communities. For Asian Americans, these digital surveillance threats are exacerbated by racialized narratives that frame us as perpetual foreigners and national security threats. Advancing Justice | AAJC advocates for public and private sector guardrails around how these tools are utilized for immigration enforcement, including legislation that mandates civil rights protections in AI-informed consequential decisions. We co-chair the Immigrant Surveillance Working Group of the Leadership Conference’s Civil Rights, Privacy and Technology Table.
Algorithms & Language Translation: AI translation tools often fail to capture the meaning, nuance, and cultural context of less commonly spoken languages. Our work highlights the risk of overreliance on automated tools and the critical role of certified translators with cultural fluency and subject matter knowledge. We work to ensure language access for all by advocating for translation tools that are accurate and honor the linguistic and cultural richness of our communities. Explore our best practices for community organizations using AI tools for language translations here:
AI Translations in Community Advocacy: Considerations and Best Practices