Julie Su: Labor Chief’s Vision on AI in Hollywood
Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su discusses the balance between embracing AI and protecting workers' rights in Hollywood and beyond.
Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su attended this year's Screen Actors Guild Awards, though in a personal capacity, signifying an acknowledgement of the impact of SAG-AFTRA’s 2023 strike and the consequent deal. Her attendance underlines a critical dialogue about the evolving labor landscape, especially in light of the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI) in the entertainment industry.
Julie Su, with her deep roots in labor advocacy and a keen understanding of Hollywood's unique labor landscape, brings a nuanced perspective to the table. Her tenure as California's labor commissioner and her history of dialogue with major industry unions positions her as an informed voice on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the entertainment sector. Her attendance at the SAG Awards, following a year marked by significant labor actions, symbolizes a recognition of the hard-fought victories and ongoing struggles of workers in the industry.
The conversation around AI and labor is complex, and Su's insights reflect this complexity. She acknowledges the dual nature of AI as both a potential opportunity and a threat for workers. The SAG-AFTRA's recent contract negotiations, which prominently featured AI concerns, are highlighted by Su as a significant moment not only for the union but for labor movements across industries. This agreement, according to Su, sets a precedent for how workers can demand protections and assurances in an era of rapid technological change.
Su underscores the importance of collaboration between employers and employees in determining how AI is deployed. This cooperative approach, she suggests, is crucial in ensuring that AI serves to augment rather than undermine the workforce. Moreover, Su points to policy as a key tool in shaping the future of work, referencing the president's executive order on AI as a step towards defining safe and equitable use of technology in the workplace.
The Department of Labor, under Su’s guidance, is actively exploring how AI impacts jobs and what this means for the workforce. Su’s stance is clear: the narrative around AI and job displacement is not predetermined. Instead, the outcomes will depend on the choices made by policymakers, businesses, and workers themselves. She envisions a future where AI complements human talent and creativity, enhancing the workforce rather than replacing it.
Su’s commentary extends beyond the technical aspects of AI, touching on the essence of human creativity and its irreplaceable value. This perspective is not only relevant to the entertainment industry but serves as a broader critique of the impersonal nature of technological advancement.