SZA Warns That AI Is Polluting “Beautiful Black Cities”
R&B singer SZA raised the alarm about the environmental impact of AI, especially on Black and brown communities, in a series of Instagram Story posts on July 16.
The R&B singer said the only AI she is interested in using is “actual imagination,” according to a screenshot captured by Vibe. “AI is killing and polluting black and brown cities. None of you care cause your codependent on a machine. Have a great life,” the singer added.
SZA Calls Out Environmental Racism
Fans had flocked to SZA’s page in search of mentions about her recent online feud with Nicki Minaj. She took the opportunity to raise the alarm about AI and environmental racism. “Sidebar, while I have ur attention, I really meant this and I’m deeply concerned..pls care.”
She continued: “Please google how much energy and pollution it takes to run Ai..please google the beautiful black cities like Memphis that are SUFFERING because of twitters new Ai system. PLEASE JUST GOOGLE ENVIRONMENTAL RACISM. AI doesn’t give a f**k if you live or die I promise.”
“THERE IS A PRICE FOR CONVENIENCE AND BLACK AND BROWN WILL PAY THE BRUNT OF IT EVERY-TIME. We won’t get it til it’s too late. Yall don’t hear me tho [sad face emoji]. Love u regardless.”
Elon Musk’s AI Facility In Memphis
SZA’s concerns are echoed by civil rights advocates in Memphis, where Musk’s AI company xAI has come under fire for alleged environmental violations. In June, the NAACP demanded an immediate shutdown of the Colossus data center, accusing the company of exposing majority-Black neighborhoods to hazardous emissions.
In a formal complaint to Dr. Michelle Taylor, Director of the Shelby County Health Department, the NAACP pointed to the use of multiple gas turbines by xAI to power its facility. The turbines used by xAI allegedly release hazardous air pollutants, such as formaldehyde, at levels exceeding EPA limits.
But these concerns did not stop the Shelby County Health Department from issuing a permit on July 2. The permit allows the AI startup to operate up to 15 turbines.
Image: Johnny Nunez/Getty Images
