The Civil Rights–Era Leaders Who Warned of Computers and Racism

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Many of the computer scientists and engineers of the day seemed indifferent to the civil rights movement. However, three civil rights figures—the philosopher, the planner, and the visionary—were keenly aware of, were concerned about, and directly addressed the growing revolution in computing and automation.

During the civil rights era, three influential leaders—A. Philip Randolph, Bayard Rustin, and Roy Wilkins—recognized the impact of computing and automation on society. They were keenly aware of the growing revolution in technology and its potential implications for racism and discrimination1.

These visionary figures understood that progress in computing could either exacerbate existing inequalities or contribute to positive change. Their insights remain relevant today as we grapple with the intersection of technology, race, and social justice2.