AI Unplugged: A Sit-in for Ethical Entertainment

A 45-day sit-in targeting the entertainment industry to promote ethical use of advanced AI systems

Campaign Idea

AI Unplugged: A Sit-in for Ethical Entertainment

Campaign Description

The AI Unplugged campaign is a 45-day sit-in outside major entertainment industry hubs to raise awareness about the ethical implications of advanced AI systems. Participants will engage in discussions, share personal stories, and create art to highlight the need for institutional changes within the entertainment industry. The campaign’s goal is to promote responsible AI practices, emphasize the importance of transparency, and call for the establishment of industry-wide ethical guidelines.

Theory for Why This Campaign Will Create Change

By targeting high-profile entertainment industry locations and engaging in peaceful sit-ins, AI Unplugged will attract media attention, spark public discourse, and pressure industry leaders to reevaluate their use of AI technologies. The campaign’s focus on personal stories and creative expression will humanize the issue and resonate with audiences on an emotional level, fostering meaningful connections and galvanizing public support for transformative change.

Sample Viral Social Media Post from the Campaign

“Day 17 of AI Unplugged: We sit, we share, we create. 🎬✊🤖 Join us in our fight for ethical AI in entertainment. Together, let’s shine the spotlight on the dark side of technology. #AIUnplugged #EntertainmentEthics #SitInForChange”

Sample Press Release Announcing Campaign to Media

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AI Unplugged: A Sit-in for Ethical Entertainment

Hollywood, CA - Activists from across the globe are gathering outside major entertainment industry hubs in a 45-day sit-in campaign, AI Unplugged, to raise awareness about the ethical implications of advanced AI systems in the entertainment landscape. The campaign calls for transparency in the use and implementation of AI technologies and urges industry leaders to establish ethical guidelines.

Participants of the AI Unplugged sit-ins invite the public to join in creative discussions, storytelling, and artistic expression to better understand the real-life consequences of AI systems on individuals and communities. By weaving personal and emotional connections into the conversation, AI Unplugged aims to inspire collective action for a more responsible and ethical future for AI in entertainment.

STORY WRITTEN IN THE FIRST-PERSON PERSPECTIVE DESCRIBING THE CAMPAIGN’S ORIGIN AND EVENTUAL SUCCESS:

As I sat on the steps of the iconic film studio, the weight of the AI Unplugged campaign pressed heavily upon me. It was day 23 of the sit-in, and I could feel the growing momentum. We had begun as a small group of concerned activists, artists, and technologists. Now, we were a force to be reckoned with.

Each day, new faces joined us, sharing their stories of how advanced AI systems had affected their lives or the lives of their loved ones. From screenwriters displaced by AI algorithms to actors losing roles to AI-generated performers, the human cost of technological advancement became increasingly clear.

With each story, the urgency of our message reverberated louder. Our handmade signs and murals, plastered along the studio’s walls, bore witness to our commitment. Together, we refused to be silenced.

And then, on day 39, something incredible happened. The CEO of a major production company stepped out of her office and addressed the crowd. She acknowledged our concerns and pledged to establish an ethical AI task force within her company.

Our persistence and solidarity had paid off. The seeds of change had been planted, and the conversation about ethical AI in entertainment could no longer be ignored.

How Will Opponents to This Campaign Try to Stop It

Opponents of the AI Unplugged campaign may attempt to dismiss its concerns as fear-mongering or argue that the entertainment industry’s adoption of advanced AI systems is inevitable and economically necessary. They could also use legal tactics to disrupt the sit-ins, such as seeking injunctions to have protesters removed.

HOW SHOULD ACTIVISTS RESPOND TO OPPONENTS' ATTEMPTS TO STOP IT:

Activists should remain peaceful and committed to their cause, countering opponents' arguments with well-researched facts and personal stories. They should also be prepared to navigate potential legal challenges by enlisting the support of legal experts sympathetic to the campaign’s goals.

What Are the Steps Necessary to Launch the Campaign

1. Research relevant ethical concerns and gather personal stories related to advanced AI in entertainment. *Suggestion: Collaborate with scholars and researchers in AI ethics, as well as individuals affected by AI in the entertainment industry.

2. Identify strategic locations for sit-ins, focusing on high-profile entertainment industry hubs. *Suggestion: Partner with local activist and community organizations to garner support and coordinate logistics.

3. Develop a communications strategy, including the creation of a campaign website, social media presence, and media outreach. *Suggestion: Design eye-catching visuals and slogans to boost the campaign’s visibility and create a sense of unity among participants.

4. Organize and train sit-in participants in nonviolent protest tactics and conflict de-escalation techniques. *Suggestion: Consult with experienced activists and draw on resources from successful nonviolent campaigns for guidance.

5. Reach out to legal experts to prepare for potential challenges to the sit-ins. *Suggestion: Establish a network of pro bono lawyers and legal organizations willing to assist if needed.

6. Launch the AI Unplugged campaign, with an emphasis on building momentum and sustaining motivation throughout the 45-day sit-in. *Suggestion: Schedule keynote speakers, performers, and community workshops to keep participants engaged.