TfD Weekly

Welcome back to another edition of TfD Weekly, your regular update from Technologists for Democracy. Here's what's been happening and what's coming up.

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This Week at Civic Tech Toronto

While we gathered again at our regular Tuesday meetup at Civic Tech Toronto, we didn't have a breakout session this time around. We still do have updates across the board. If you haven't joined us yet, you can find upcoming events at the Civic Tech Toronto events page.

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In-Person Event: People's Consultation on AI

In early March, we're hosting an in-person session focused on the People's Consultation on AI. This is an open invitation to anyone who wants to participate, learn more, and come prepared with questions.

The People's Consultation on AI is a civil society initiative working to advance AI law, policy, and regulation centred around human rights and the public interest. It emerged as a direct response to the federal government's "national sprint" consultation on AI strategy, which critics argued gave disproportionate weight to industry voices while leaving out historically marginalized communities and civil society groups. The consultation offers guides, templates, and resources to help people make informed submissions to the government.

We encourage you to visit the site before the session to get familiar with the material and start gathering questions you'd like to explore together.

We're still working out the details and would love your input. Join us on Slack to help shape the event, whether that's the format, timing, or topics you'd most like to cover.

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Privacy Toolkit

We're working on a privacy toolkit, a practical resource to help people understand and protect their privacy rights. If this is something you'd like to contribute to or learn more about, come find us on Slack.

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Our Campaigns

Cineplex Facial Detection at Union Station — We've raised concerns about Cineplex Digital Media's use of facial detection technology on advertising billboards at Union Station, and a Privacy Commissioner investigation is underway.

Bill C-2 Surveillance Legislation — We continue to monitor and engage with concerns around Bill C-2 and its implications for digital privacy and civil liberties.

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Get Involved

Interested in shaping TfD's work? Join our Slack channel to connect with the community, weigh in on upcoming events like the March in-person session, and stay in the loop between newsletters.

If this newsletter resonated with you, consider forwarding it to a friend who cares about technology and democracy. The more people engaged in these issues, the stronger our collective voice.

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Technologists for Democracy are Canadians who work with technology towards better democracy for all. Learn more at techfordemocracy.ca.