Beyond Decorative: Chicanx & Latinx Communities as AI Prompts
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Presented by: Dr. Veronica Sandoval, Instructor of Race, Indigenous Nations, Gender, and Writing; Magali Sánchez, Reference and Instruction Librarian; and Dr. Jonathan Ortiz, Chicanx and Latinx Studies Instructor
Summary
This panel presentation explores the critical intersections of generative AI, representation, and cultural equity within Chicanx and Latinx communities. Dr. Jonathan Ortiz discusses how image-based AI flattens diverse identities into narrow stereotypes, erasing Afro-Latinx, Indigenous, and Asian-Latinx populations due to a lack of backend developer diversity. Magali Sánchez highlights how artificial intelligence language models output incomplete narratives and how algorithms frequently flag or suppress social justice content. Dr. Veronica Sandoval examines how AI image generation commercializes and displaces sacred cultural traditions, such as Day of the Dead altars (Ofrendas), while advocating for a sacred, community-grounded approach to classroom pedagogy. Together, the presenters offer reflections on critical AI literacy, equitable technical futures, and alternative practices for educators.
Presentation Outcomes
- Analyze how generative AI models flatten complex Chicanx and Latinx identities into narrow visual and narrative stereotypes.
- Understand the mechanisms behind algorithmic bias, web scraping, and censorship of social justice content in digital spaces.
- Evaluate the cultural disruption caused by replacing handmade sacred traditions, such as Día de los Muertos Ofrendas, with synthetic AI generation.
- Develop culturally responsive pedagogical practices that center student identity, equity, and ethical technology use in higher education.
Keywords: Generative AI, Chicanx Studies, Latinx Studies, Algorithmic Bias, Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education, Digital Literacy, Equity and Inclusion, Cultural Traditions, Ofrendas, Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
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