The global grassroots gatherings trying to humanize the AI boom
Rest of World Rina Chandran
Grassroots organizations like AI Salon and AI Collective have launched chapters globally since 2023 to hold conversations about AI's societal impact beyond Silicon Valley's dominant narrative. AI Salon operates in three cities with ~20-person gatherings, while AI Collective has grown to 200,000 members across 200 chapters in 50 countries, mostly run by volunteers. These groups aim to broaden AI discourse and build local agency, though critics note participants still tend to be tech-industry workers reproducing existing power imbalances rather than reaching ordinary people.
Why it matters
Local tech groups in Kenya, India, and the U.S. are building communities and conversations around AI, but also face questions about privilege and reach.
