(Photo: ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images)
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York voiced remorse regarding an offhand remark she made during a spontaneous conversation.
She indicated that her comment, implying a lack of familiarity among Black children in the Bronx with the term "computer," was not intended to offend or stereotype.
Governor Hochul's Remark Raises Concerns
Speaking at a large business conference in California to discuss expanding economic opportunities in artificial intelligence for low-income communities, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, commented without prior preparation.
During her speech at the Milken Institute Global Conference, she brought attention to the fact that young Black children growing up in the Bronx may not be familiar with the concept of a "computer."
The remark wasn't addressed during the interview. Governor Hochul further elaborated that her objective is to facilitate access to emerging artificial intelligence technologies for communities of color to tackle social inequality.
Hochul emphasized that Black children in the Bronx are indeed familiar with computers; however, the Associated Press reported that the real issue lies in their limited access to the technology necessary for pursuing lucrative careers in burgeoning fields such as AI.
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Hochul attended the Milken Institute Global Conference to address New York's artificial intelligence initiative. Engaging in a fireside chat, she outlined a new AI consortium comprising universities and state schools.
Highlighting the initiative, she mentioned that state-raised funds would be allocated to construct a supercomputer accessible to researchers.
From the onset of her administration, she has prioritized expanding economic opportunities, reaffirming her commitment to leveling the playing field for all New Yorkers.
Mixed Reactions to Governor Hochul's Remarks
As Governor Hochul's remarks garnered increasing attention and scrutiny online, New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, whose constituency includes the Bronx in the Legislature, publicly came to her defense.
Heastie extended his support for Governor Hochul, noting that although her wording may have been inelegant and offensive, he believes her intentions are genuinely aimed at ensuring the success of all students.
Meanwhile, BBC reported that Bronx elected officials voiced significant concern and condemnation regarding the governor's comments. Assemblymember Karines Reyes, who identifies as Afro-Latina, articulated feeling "deeply disturbed" by Ms. Hochul's remarks.
Amanda Septimo, an assembly member representing the South Bronx and of African descent, characterized the comments as "harmful, deeply misinformed, and genuinely appalling."
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