AI in Policing: Current Practices, Racial Bias, and Community Voices
Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping the way law enforcement agencies operate and make decisions. While these technologies offer new possibilities for improving policing practices, they also raise important questions about racial bias, discrimination, fairness, and human rights.
The Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre invites community members in Edmonton and Calgary to attend AI in Policing: Current Practices, Racial Bias, and Community Voices, a special community event exploring the growing role of artificial intelligence in policing and the criminal justice system.
Can artificial intelligence make policing more effective while reinforcing racial injustice?
The event will feature Dr. Gideon Christian, Associate Professor at the University of Calgary Faculty of Law, who will examine how emerging technologies such as facial recognition, predictive policing, and algorithmic risk assessment are transforming law enforcement and criminal justice practices.
Drawing on real-world examples, Dr. Christian will explore how these technologies are used, the potential risks of reinforcing existing racial biases and discrimination, and their broader implications for human rights, fairness, and accountability. The discussion will also consider the challenges of ensuring that AI-assisted policing practices remain equitable and respectful of the rights of all members of society.
Following the presentation, participants will have the opportunity to take part in a facilitated community conversation. This session will bring together different perspectives and encourage attendees to share their experiences, raise concerns, and discuss how communities can contribute to shaping a fairer and more accountable approach to AI-assisted policing in Canada.
The events welcome community members, legal professionals, researchers, advocates, and other interested stakeholders who wish to learn more about the intersection of artificial intelligence, racial justice, and policing.
Event Details
Edmonton
- Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2026
- Time: 5:00–8:00 PM
- Location: Africa Centre
- Registration: Register for the Edmonton Event
Calgary
- Date: Wednesday, November 25, 2026
- Time: 5:00–8:00 PM
- Location: University of Calgary Downtown Campus
- Registration: Register for the Calgary Event
Additional Information
Food will be provided, and attendees will receive a $20 honorarium for their participation. Registration is required.
These gatherings provide an opportunity to bring community voices into an important conversation about the future of policing in Canada. By creating space for dialogue between community members, researchers, legal professionals, and advocates, the events aim to encourage greater awareness and meaningful discussion around the responsible and equitable use of artificial intelligence in law enforcement.
Event Organizers and Supporters
The events are hosted by the Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre, supported by the Africa Centre, and funded by the Canadian Race Relations Foundation.
