New York Governor Kathy Hochul has sparked controversy after making a comment regarding young Black children in the Bronx and their familiarity with computers.
During an interview at the Milken Institute Global Conference in California, Gov. Hochul remarked, “Right now, we have young Black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word computer is. They don’t know, they don’t know these things.”
The statement, made in the context of discussing economic opportunities in AI for low-income communities, sparked immediate pushback from many people, including from the very community she referenced.
“We all know what a computer is. We all use one. We got them in school. We all have access to a computer. You saying stuff that’s ignorant. It doesn’t make sense. You trying to downplay the community,” expressed one Bronx high schooler in an interview with Lou Valentino.
Earlier today, New York Governor Kathy Hochul said black kids growing up in the Bronx didn’t even know what the word computer is… here’s their BRUTAL response to her
“Stop downplaying the black community for clout”
Interviews from @Louvalentino_
https://t.co/UD4mDfBlC7— George (@BehizyTweets) May 7, 2024
Facing mounting criticism, Gov. Hochul swiftly issued an apology, acknowledging her misstep and expressing regret for the unintended implications of her words.
In a statement released later on Monday, Hochul stated, “I misspoke and I regret it. Of course, Black children in the Bronx know what computers are — the problem is that they too often lack access to the technology needed to get on track to high-paying jobs in emerging industries like AI.”
The governor emphasized her ongoing commitment to advancing economic opportunities for all New Yorkers, particularly those from underserved communities. “That’s why I’ve been focused on increasing economic opportunity since Day One of my Administration, and will continue that fight to ensure every New Yorker has a shot at a good-paying job.”