Technology and Ethnic-Racial Relations in Brazil: Challenges and Perspectives

In this course, students will understand structural racism and the low representation of Black and mixed-race professionals in the Information Technology sector, highlighting educational and socioeconomic barriers that limit access to opportunities. The importance of diversity initiatives and public policies to expand digital and professional inclusion will be discussed.

The module also addresses algorithmic racism, evidenced by biases in AI systems, content moderation, and facial recognition, including the case of Joy Buolamwini. Intersectional impacts on Black women and vulnerable communities are analyzed, highlighting the need for racial audits, algorithmic transparency, and rigorous application of Brazil's LGPD (General Data Protection Law) to safeguard rights and reduce discrimination.

Finally, students will study public policies and affirmative action, such as laws on teaching Afro-Brazilian history, quotas in college programs and acceleration initiatives, and the coordination among civil society, companies, and governments. The module emphasizes that building ethical and inclusive Artificial Intelligence depends on participatory governance, diverse data, and ongoing commitment to addressing present and future inequalities.