GLAAD CEO Sarah Kate Ellis stated at the Axios AI+ NY summit that AI models trained on biased data risk reinforcing harmful rhetoric against the LGBTQ+ community. She warned that this could lead to real-world harm, especially for transgender and non-binary individuals, as AI becomes more integrated into platforms.
The integration of biased AI systems poses a significant threat to vulnerable communities like the LGBTQ+ population, potentially exacerbating discrimination and misinformation. Simultaneously, dating apps are exploring new revenue streams and user engagement strategies through a blend of AI and in-person events, reflecting broader trends in the tech and social networking industries.
Sarah Kate Ellis, President and CEO of GLAAD, voiced significant concerns at the Axios AI+ NY summit regarding the potential for artificial intelligence systems to perpetuate harm against the LGBTQ+ community. Ellis explained that AI models learn from data that often contains inherent biases and harmful rhetoric, which can lead to the reinforcement of negative stereotypes and the spread of misinformation. This is particularly alarming given the current climate of increased attacks against the LGBTQ+ community, with a specific focus on transgender and non-binary individuals. Ellis emphasized that as AI becomes more deeply integrated into various digital platforms, the risk of real-world harm escalates if these systems are not developed and trained responsibly. GLAAD's research also indicates a link between social media companies and real-world violence. In parallel, dating app Bumble is preparing to launch a new paid feature called 'Plans' in New York, which will facilitate small, in-person group gatherings. Users will pay a flat fee to RSVP to these events, with plus-ones also requiring payment. This move into IRL events comes as Bumble's revenue and paying users have declined year over year, prompting the company to explore new strategies to re-engage its user base. This initiative follows Bumble founder and CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd's recent discussions about new AI-powered features for the app, which have faced user backlash. Bumble has previously experimented with IRL events, launching 'The Hive' in 2017 and hosting other singles events in 2022. The launch of 'Plans' also occurs as competitors like Tinder introduce similar group dating features and AI matchmaking tools.