technology

Legendary actor Morgan Freeman, age 88, has publicly criticized the unauthorized use of artificial intelligence to replicate his distinctive voice, calling such practices both unethical and illegal. Freeman expressed frustration that AI-generated voice clones deprive him of rightful compensation for work that uses his recognizable voice, which he considers integral to his professional identity and livelihood. His legal team has been actively investigating multiple instances where his voice has been used without permission in online videos, advertisements, and AI applications. Additionally, Freeman voiced skepticism about fully digital AI-generated performers, arguing that audiences reject them because they lack authenticity and take opportunities away from real actors.

Sisters Siana and SuVon Treece are bringing their CHAMPAINT creative event back to Detroit's Beacon Park on November 21 for a special holiday-themed session. The two-hour guided painting experience, hosted by their business Artistic Expressions Gallery, will take place in a heated tent during the park's annual light display celebration. Participants will enjoy instruction from the artists, complimentary champagne, and a festive atmosphere decorated with holiday lights. Tickets cost $45 and can be purchased through Eventbrite, continuing the gallery's tradition of combining art with community engagement that began in 2008. # Key Takeaways

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is seeking private contractors to establish a 24/7 social media monitoring program that would scan major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others to generate immigration enforcement leads. While ICE already conducts some social media surveillance, this new initiative represents a significant expansion in both scale and structure, creating a public-private surveillance system where contractors would rapidly compile dossiers by combining social media data with commercial databases and government records. The information collected would feed into Palantir's case management system alongside biometric data, license plate scans, and other personal information, effectively creating comprehensive digital profiles. Critics worry this system will lead to mission creep, chilling effects on free speech, and the surveillance of entire communities rather than just targeted individuals, with minimal oversight of the private contractors making subjective judgments about what constitutes threatening behavior. # Key Takeaways

Detroit Salon, a new contemporary art platform created by Detroit-based Salonnière and supported by various Michigan organizations, will debut internationally in Paris in fall 2025 before staging a citywide edition in Detroit in 2028. The initiative aims to connect Detroit artists to global audiences while establishing a headquarters in Paradise Valley for year-round exhibitions and artist development. With partnerships including Art Basel and 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, Detroit Salon represents a significant effort to elevate Detroit's visual arts scene on the world stage. The project emphasizes Detroit-led curation and storytelling, seeking to drive new audiences to the city's cultural institutions while providing career-sustaining opportunities for local artists.

The 2025 Annual Rainbow PUSH/CEF Global Automotive Summit will return to Detroit on October 15, marking its 26th anniversary as a crucial platform for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the automotive industry. The event, held at the Motor City Casino Hotel & Conference Center, will feature sessions covering industry challenges, minority dealerships, ethnic consumer trends, and supplier partnerships from 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Industry leaders including NAMAD President Perry Watson IV, S&P Global Mobility's Marc Bland, and executives from Toyota and Stellantis will discuss strategies for inclusive growth and strengthening diverse supply chains. A highlight will be the unveiling of the 2025 Brand Equity Index, replacing the previous Automotive Diversity Scorecard to track progress in building a more equitable automotive ecosystem.

Detroit Public Schools Community District has inaugurated the Southeastern High School Career Technical Education Annex, an 11,000-square-foot facility equipped with professional-grade welding and CNC labs. This $16 million project represents the first completed new construction under the district's $700 million Facilities Master Plan, strategically located at a historic East Side high school built in 1917. Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti emphasized that this intentional investment in a neighborhood school is crucial for rebuilding Detroit communities, not just downtown development. The project, supported by a $4 million contribution from Stellantis, aims to provide local students with advanced manufacturing skills without leaving their community, helping to address historical disinvestment in the area.