New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently found herself at the center of controversy following her comments regarding the digital divide in underserved communities. Speaking at an on-stage forum in California, Hochul made a statement that has since sparked significant backlash, particularly from Bronx politicians.
The governor, in an attempt to highlight the importance of creating a diverse workforce in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, remarked, "Right now, we have, you know, young black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word ‘computer’ is." This assertion, intended to underline the digital divide, has instead led to a heated debate about the governor's understanding of the challenges faced by the Bronx community.
Critics argue that Hochul's comments perpetuate stereotypes and ignore the efforts being made by local leaders and community organizations to bridge the digital gap. Assemblywoman Amanda Septimo (D-Bronx) expressed disappointment, stating, "Of course Black children in the Bronx know what computers are — the problem is that they too often lack access to the technology needed to get on track to high-paying jobs in emerging industries like AI."
Governor Hochul has since expressed regret over her remarks. In a statement, she acknowledged that her words were "insensitive and wrong," emphasizing her commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all New York children have access to the technology needed for success in the digital age.
The controversy has brought to the forefront the issue of the digital divide, particularly in communities of color, and the importance of providing equal access to technology and education. It has also underscored the role of public figures in shaping perceptions and the need for thoughtful dialogue when addressing complex social issues.
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