Recreating historic Brown v. Board case with technology
Marking a significant turn in the fight against racial discrimination, the US Supreme Court’s historic ruling on May 17, 1954, in the Brown v. Board of Education case declared racial segregation in public schools legally unenforceable. “Separate educational facilities are inherently unequal,” Chief Justice Earl Warren announced, effectively superseding the “separate but equal” principle from Plessy v. Ferguson.
However, this momentous decision was met with widespread resistance in several Southern states, leading to further litigation, protests, and the Civil Rights Movement. The 1968 Green v. County School Board verdict reaffirmed the Brown decision, pushing for an enforcement of desegregation in public schools. This struggle and the subsequent resistance underline the continuous effort needed to uphold the principles of social justice and equality.
Given the sizeable impact and enduring legacy of this case, a team led by Jerry Goldman, an Emeritus Professor at Northwestern University, is working on an intriguing project named “Revisited”.
Recreating Brown v. Board with tech tools
The team aims to recreate the verbal argument and final decision of Brown v. Board of Education using innovative tools like voice-cloning technology, visual layouts, and an interactive database. This holistic approach is set to breathe new life into this historic legal battle that shaped the American educational landscape.
The multi-disciplinary team comprises scholars, technologists, designers, and journalists under the directorship of Joe Germuska from Knight Lab at the Medill School of Journalism. The project allows for collaborations with entities such as Knight Lab, Spooler, and AI firm Respeecher in Ukraine. The overarching goal is to foster a greater public understanding of the critical role of the Brown decision in combating racial segregation, especially as we approach its 70th anniversary.
“Revisited” kicked off with the construction of a detailed and accurate script using direct extracts from the original oral arguments and the Supreme Court’s verdict. The team then proceeded to create artificial voice models for key figures using AI and voice actors, ensuring the highest level of authenticity. This unusual research study integrates law, history, technology, and performing arts into an exciting domain.
Thanks to private individuals, national law firms, and altruistic organizations, this initiative graced by the contributions of Brown case plaintiffs and their families comes to life. Reflecting the sacrifices made for racial justice and equality, the project is not just an innovative academic pursuit but a fitting tribute to these champions of equality.
