Despite the remarkable contributions of women in AI globally, it is disheartening to see that a recent article titled “Who’s Who Behind the Dawn of the Modern Artificial Intelligence Movement” by J. Edward Moreno published in The New York Times (2023-12-03) fails to include a single woman in its list of influencers, perpetuating a concerning narrative of gender bias within the tech industry. This omission is not only an oversight but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about who contributes meaningfully to AI.

Women have been instrumental in shaping AI globally and despite such remarkable contributions from numerous women leaders worldwide, their work often goes unrecognized or underrepresented.

This lack of representation has real-world consequences as it can discourage young girls and other marginalized groups from pursuing careers in tech due to a lack of visible role models and representation. According to a study conducted by Microsoft Europe (2017), 30% more girls would consider taking STEM subjects if they had role models who were women and women of color. 

I and my fellow women, women of color, non-binary, and transgenders urge The New York Times not only to correct this omission but also commit itself to more inclusive reporting that truly reflects diverse voices contributing significantly towards advancements in technology fields like artificial intelligence. 

As an Iranian woman in Sweden, watching the recent surge the Iranian women’s revolution movement #women #life #freedom and in popularity of the Iranian revolution-inspired TV series “The Handmaid’s Tale” has prompted me to reflect on the socio-political climate and the potential consequences of biased AI development. As a woman in STEAM, I vehemently refuse to witness a regression in the progress we have made and endure a biased approach to the development of artificial intelligence.

It is evident that biases within AI systems can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce systemic inequalities. This not only affects individuals but also hinders the advancement of technology as a whole. We have reached a point where mere acknowledgment is not sufficient; concrete actions are required to rectify these biases and ensure a fair and inclusive future for all.

In conclusion, the imperative for diversity, inclusion, and equity in AI development is clear. Embracing DEI principles not only aligns with ethical considerations but also enhances the effectiveness, innovation, and global relevance of AI technologies. The dangers of neglecting DEI are not only ethical but also pose significant risks to business reputation, market share, and the potential of AI to positively impact society. It is time for men in tech to champion systemic change, actively include women in their teams, and collectively contribute to the creation of AI technologies that reflect the diversity and values of our global community.