OK Google, Black History Month Is Over. What Now?
A commercial and four flawed algorithms
During the Grammys this past January, Google released a commercial highlighting some of “the most searched” terms in honor of Black History Month. The 90-second ad featured footage of notable Black figures such as Beyoncé, LeBron James, Whitney Houston, Lil Nas X, and Serena Williams. When the commercial aired, Black Twitter was not surprised that Google would try to capitalize on the contributions of the Black community. Black people regularly contribute to the success of others without adequate or equitable compensation or consideration (see the National Football League or the Democratic party).
Despite the benefits Google has received from the Black community, the company has refused to or has been slow to correct the discriminatory algorithmic practices at YouTube, such as its language filter, ads, and its search algorithms. Whether intentional or unconscious, all of these biases have harmed the Black community. For some people, Google is the internet. Civil rights considerations must be central to big…
