The Rising Threat of Deepfakes: A Call for Action
Deepfakes represent a significant danger in today’s digital landscape, impersonating artists and utilizing their likeness or voice without consent to portray them in a misleading manner. This form of identity misuse can have severe repercussions, undermining careers, damaging reputations, and inflicting emotional distress on the affected individuals. Regrettably, the instances of deepfake exploitation are becoming increasingly prevalent.
Combating Deepfakes Through Collaboration in the Music Industry
The music industry has taken proactive steps to combat the deepfake phenomenon by advocating for practical solutions that protect individuals’ rights to their voices and images. This initiative promotes responsible AI development while safeguarding free expression.
Legislative Progress and Support
Early collaborations between SAG-AFTRA and major record labels led to the establishment of protective measures in collective bargaining agreements. The recent passage of the ELVIS Act in Tennessee marks a significant stride forward. Together with various stakeholders across the American creative, technology, and advocacy sectors, we are now rallying support for the NO FAKES Act in Congress.
Understanding the NO FAKES Act
This bipartisan legislation aims to create a federal intellectual property right pertaining to an individual’s voice and likeness. It ensures that everyone has the authority to manage how their personal attributes are digitally replicated. Notably, the bill upholds essential uses protected under free speech principles, all while fostering AI innovation and American competitiveness. The urgency for the bill’s passage is more critical than ever.
The Role of the Creative Community
The involvement of our creative community is paramount. Currently, hundreds of artists, actors, and creative professionals have already signed a petition urging Congress to recognize the importance of this legislation. Our goal is to transform this effort into a movement that unifies thousands. Key figures within the industry have testified about the stakes involved, emphasizing the necessity for policymakers to respond. The Human Artistry Campaign, now representing over 180 organizations and creators from more than 35 countries, stands as a testament to this unified effort—let’s strive to make this an American law that spurs global action.
Acknowledgments and Coalition Building
We owe a debt of gratitude to those who have propelled this initiative forward. The courageous actions of artists and songwriters have been instrumental. The AI sector also merits recognition for engaging in discussions aimed at reaching mutual agreements beneficial to both artists and artificial intelligence. Major companies like Google, YouTube, OpenAI, IBM, and Adobe have shown their support for this vital legislation, showcasing a willingness to collaborate for the greater good. Additionally, the film industry has invested considerable effort into striking a balance that honors the First Amendment and addresses economic and individual concerns. Broadcasters have advocated for the protection of DJs, reporters, and over-the-air entertainers, while organizations dedicated to preventing child and sexual exploitation have been crucial in shaping protective measures against abuse.
Confronting Opposition and Maintaining Momentum
As anticipated, opposition to the NO FAKES Act will likely arise. However, we must not allow perfection to hinder progress. The protection of personal likenesses and voices is an imperative as AI technologies evolve. We encourage everyone to join the movement to make the NO FAKES Act a reality. Visit humanartistrycampaign.com to add your name to the petition and utilize the available tools to alert your representatives about the urgency of this issue. Together, we can achieve a significant milestone for our community.
Conclusion: The Importance of Collective Action
The NO FAKES Act exemplifies the potential for monumental progress when diverse groups unite to address significant challenges. Protecting the rights of artists and all individuals to safeguard their voices, faces, and identities is paramount. We are committed to pushing this legislation across the finish line.
Mitch Glazer is the CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America, Harvey Mason Jr. serves as the CEO of the Recording Academy, and Duncan Crabtree-Ireland is the national executive director of SAG-AFTRA.