By Tenita Abraham
Technology
Introduction
In a historic moment of clarity and courage, newly elected Pope Leo XIV—the first American pontiff—delivered a bold warning about the rise of artificial intelligence. While the world celebrated his groundbreaking election, the Pope’s inaugural message quickly turned toward a pressing issue facing every community: the moral and social impact of AI. His words weren’t just philosophical—they were a direct challenge to global leaders, tech developers, and everyday citizens alike: Will we allow AI to erode human dignity, or will we build a future grounded in justice and compassion?
The Pope’s Message: Ethics in an Age of Algorithms
Referencing Rerum Novarum, Pope Leo XIII’s 1891 document on labor during the Industrial Revolution, Pope Leo XIV framed today’s AI wave as a modern-day revolution—one that demands an equally urgent ethical response.
“In our own day, the Church offers to everyone the treasury of her social teaching in response to another industrial revolution and to developments in the field of artificial intelligence that pose new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice, and labor.”
This wasn’t a rejection of technology—it was a reminder that AI must be guided by values that protect people, not just profits.
Why This Matters for Minority and Working-Class Communities
The impact of AI won’t be distributed evenly. Black, Latino, and working-class communities are more likely to hold jobs that are most vulnerable to automation—positions in retail, logistics, and customer service. And historically, these same communities have been left out of economic revolutions until it was too late.
The Pope’s remarks are a wake-up call for those of us fighting for equity. If we don’t actively participate in shaping AI policy and development, we risk repeating cycles of exclusion and economic disparity. Now is the time to push for inclusion, reskilling programs, and ethical standards that protect workers and amplify underrepresented voices in tech.
A Call for AI That Uplifts, Not Undermines
Pope Leo XIV’s words highlight a critical truth: technology should serve humanity, not control it. As AI grows more powerful, it must be balanced with values rooted in human dignity. Leaders in every sector must ensure that automation doesn’t deepen inequality or strip away purpose and meaning from people’s lives.
Communities of color—already battling systemic barriers—cannot afford to be silent on this issue. We must be at the table, helping shape the systems that are shaping us. We must be a part of the AI Movement!
Closing Thought
This week, we reflect on the Pope’s message—a moral checkpoint in the age of artificial intelligence. But reflection isn’t enough. AI is no longer a future issue—it’s already here, shaping the way we work, live, and connect. That means now is the time for our communities—especially those historically left out of tech revolutions—to get informed, get involved, and get equipped.
You don’t have to be a coder to be part of this movement. From business owners and educators to artists and caregivers, AI is touching every profession. Let’s start asking the right questions, exploring the tools, and demanding a seat at the table where these technologies are being built and deployed.
Because when we understand AI, we don’t just protect our future—we shape it
