TfD Weekly
Weekly updates from Technologists for Democracy. We're Canadians working in tech, pushing for privacy rights and democratic accountability.
Welcome to Technologists for Democracy
Thank you for being here on day one.
This newsletter will keep you in the loop on what we're working on, what we've won, and how you can get involved.
Expect updates after our Tuesday meetings at Civic Tech Toronto. Emails will be short, scannable, and with links to dig deeper if you want.
Here's what's happening.
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AI Playbook for NGOs
Many organizations feel pressure to adopt AI tools to appear forward-thinking. Rushing in without a plan can create more problems than it solves, and is complicated further by just how fast developments occur in the AI space.
We're developing an AI Playbook for NGOs: a set of best practices to help organizations decide whether, when, and how to start using AI responsibly.
This is an active project. If you work with or for an NGO navigating these questions, we'd love your input.
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Win: Magna Ends Facial Recording Pilot
Magna International is a Canadian auto parts giant and one of the largest automotive suppliers in the world. Earlier this year, they launched a self-driving delivery vehicle pilot in Toronto that would have recorded people's faces on public streets. TfD members spoke at city council, sent letters, and helped push councillors to demand answers about data privacy.
In October, Magna shut the pilot down. Read the full story.
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Ongoing Campaigns
Stop Cineplex from Facial Detection Cineplex is using facial detection technology on screens at Union Station. We're pushing back. Learn more and get involved.
Stop Bill C-2 from Surveilling Us Bill C-2 raises serious concerns about government surveillance powers. See where we stand.
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Next Meeting: Tuesday, February 10
We meet weekly at Civic Tech Toronto. Join us at 7pm for the main gathering, then find us in the breakout sessions from 8pm onwards. In person or remote, all are welcome.
Our next volunteer meeting is Thursday, February 12. RSVP on Luma
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Connect with Us
Follow TfD on LinkedIn to stay in the loop between newsletters.
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Technologists for Democracy is a community of Canadians who work with technology towards better democracy for all.