Florida A&M students join nationwide walkout calling for a pause on artificial intelligence development

COLLEGE TOWN, FL (WTXL) — Students working with Dream Defenders at Florida A&M University (FAMU) are worried about how AI-powered surveillance could affect people's privacy and their futures.

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Students at Florida A&M University joined a nationwide walkout on Tuesday. They called for a pause in the development of artificial intelligence (AI).

The walkout is part of a nationwide day of action, with more than 50 locations across the country expected to take part. Organizers want new AI development to stop for now. They say the public should have more say in how the technology is used, get a share of the money it creates, and have stronger safety protections before development continues.

At FAMU, students are especially concerned about how AI could be used to watch people and their communities. Students working with Dream Defenders worry that AI-powered surveillance could affect people's privacy and even their futures.

They say they want people to listen to their concerns as the technology continues to change.

"I believe this is important for us to walk because we have to stand up for ourselves. You know, there have been cases where students were turned down for jobs, and it wasn't even a recruiter making the decision. It was AI. So, as young people entering the workforce, we should speak up for ourselves, our communities, and the next generation so we can have job opportunities," Adriana Clanton said.

Tuesday's walkout is part of a larger nationwide movement. But students at FAMU say they also want people to think about how AI could affect their own lives and communities.

This story was first reported by a journalist on air and was adapted for this platform with help from AI. Our editorial team checks all reporting across our platforms to make sure it is fair and accurate.