New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed regret for a remark she made suggesting that Black children in the Bronx do not know what a computer is. The comment was made during an interview at a business conference in California where she was discussing economic opportunities in artificial intelligence for low-income communities. Despite the criticism the comment received, Hochul clarified her intention to provide access to technology for communities of color to address social inequality.
Hochul’s remark drew immediate backlash, with state Assemblywoman Amanda Septimo calling it “harmful, deeply misinformed, and genuinely appalling.” However, Hochul later addressed the comment and expressed regret for misspeaking. She clarified that the issue is not that Black children in the Bronx do not know what computers are, but rather they lack access to the technology necessary for high-paying jobs in industries like artificial intelligence. Hochul emphasized her commitment to increasing economic opportunity for all New Yorkers.
State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, who represents the Bronx in the Legislature, defended Hochul despite the backlash. He characterized her words as being inartful and hurtful but believed that her intentions were ultimately positive. Heastie stated that he believed the governor wants to see all students succeed and excel, despite the unfortunate choice of words in her initial comment.
Hochul’s focus on economic opportunity and increasing access to technology for communities of color has been a key priority since the beginning of her administration. She has been dedicated to ensuring that all New Yorkers have the opportunity to secure good-paying jobs, including those in emerging industries like artificial intelligence. Hochul’s commitment to addressing social inequality through providing avenues for economic advancement remains steadfast.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being mindful of language and the impact of offhand remarks, particularly when discussing sensitive topics such as race and socioeconomic disparities. While Hochul’s comment was met with criticism, her prompt acknowledgment of misspeaking and commitment to continuing efforts to provide opportunities for all New Yorkers demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow from the experience.
Overall, the controversy surrounding Hochul’s remark highlights the ongoing challenges faced by communities of color in accessing opportunities in emerging industries. By acknowledging the misstep and reaffirming her dedication to economic equity, Governor Hochul has the opportunity to turn this incident into a catalyst for further progress in ensuring that all New Yorkers, regardless of background, have the chance to thrive in the modern economy.
