Panel Warns Black and Latino Communities Risk Falling Behind in AI Era
Speakers said broadband access and digital literacy remain major barriers to benefiting from emerging technologies.
Speakers said broadband access and digital literacy remain major barriers to benefiting from emerging technologies.
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2026 – Black and Latino communities risk falling further behind as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life – a warning that persistent gaps in broadband access and digital literacy are limiting who can benefit from AI innovations.
The discussion took place Wednesday during the 2026 Tech & Telecom Policy Outlook, hosted at CTIA headquarters in Washington by HTTP (Hispanic Tech and Telecommunications Partnership), LGBT Tech, MMTC, and OCA-APA Advocates.
Advocates, policy experts, and industry representatives discussed the year’s key telecom issues, including AI and data center development, spectrum policy, broadband affordability, and media consolidation.
FCC insists it’s necessary to prevent fraud.
New York City’s reliance on companies like Spectrum and Verizon has not delivered affordable or universal service, analysts say.
Who decides where data centers get built?
Carr stressed the importance of competition in the LEO market.
Member discussion