Bard College has announced that its Wihanble S'a Center for Indigenous AI has been designated a Humanities Research Center on AI by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). This prestigious recognition comes with a $500,000 grant to support the Center's groundbreaking research.
Beginning in Fall 2024, the Wihanble S'a Center, under the direction of Dr. Suzanne Kite, an Oglala Lakota artist and academic, will embark on research to develop ethical AI frameworks that are deeply rooted in Indigenous methodologies.
The Center's mission is to explore the ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI, ensuring that these technologies reflect diverse perspectives.
Dr. Kite emphasizes the importance of American Indian perspectives in AI, stating, "Our goal is to develop ethical methodologies for systems grounded in Indigenous knowledge... challenging the predominantly Western approach to AI."
The NEH grant will support several key initiatives:
The Wihanble S'a Center's work complements Bard College's existing commitment to Indigenous studies, including the Center for Indigenous Studies' recruitment and support of Indigenous students. It also aligns with Dr. Kite's work with the international Abundant Intelligences Indigenous AI research program. This designation highlights Bard College's dedication to fostering innovative, socially responsible research that bridges the humanities and technological advancements.
This initiative places Bard College and the Wihanble S'a Center at the forefront of Indigenous-informed AI research. By integrating Indigenous knowledge systems with AI technologies, the Center aims to create a more ethical and inclusive future for artificial intelligence.
Keywords: Indigenous AI, artificial intelligence, ethics, research, National Endowment for the Humanities, Bard College.
