The Women of Color Initiative (WOCI), in collaboration with the MERC Office at MCLA, hosted an open discussion on Wednesday, Nov. 12, bringing students together to examine issues ranging from AI in music to celebrity politics and Super Bowl controversies. The event ran from 7–9 p.m. and welcomed all students interested in contributing to an open conversation.
AI in Music: Creativity, Pressure, and Rapid Change
Facilitator Naom Blake opened the evening with a discussion on the growing influence of artificial intelligence in music production. Many attendees expressed concern about AI’s rapid expansion and the pressures it places on traditional forms of creativity.
“AI is rapid and growing and expensive, no restrictions,” Blake said. “AI is here, and AI is here to stay. These new generations are feeding it.”
Some students noted that emerging artists may feel discouraged when competing with AI-generated music.
Super Bowl Debates and Law Enforcement Concerns
The discussion shifted toward the Super Bowl and recent online commentary surrounding it, including reactions to political posts by Erika Kirk. Several participants expressed criticism and questioned her role in shaping conversations about the event.
Attendees also raised concerns about law enforcement presence at high-profile events.
“Now there’s gonna be more ICE agents at the Super Bowl,” student Ymar Martinez said. “One person is performing for 20 minutes—why are you gonna have ICE agents show up?”
Others argued that the high cost of tickets already limits who attends, making increased enforcement feel unnecessary.
Representation, Race, and Misconceptions in Pop Culture
Students then turned their attention to Bad Bunny and his influence on Puerto Rican and Latin communities. Many expressed frustration at political misunderstandings about Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory, noting how these misconceptions shape public discourse.
The group also discussed past Super Bowl halftime performances, including Kendrick Lamar’s, examining how race can impact public perception of artists.
Celebrity Influence and the Politics of Visibility
A major part of the conversation focused on the power celebrities hold in shaping public opinion. Taylor Swift became a central example as students debated her political involvement and what some described as “performative” actions associated with white feminism.
Participants questioned whether celebrity political endorsements truly encourage voter participation—or whether they place too much weight on public figures rather than civic institutions.
The group also discussed the rise of Katseye, comparing K-pop industry groups with globally assembled groups that adopt K-pop aesthetics, raising questions of authenticity and representation.
Closing Thoughts and Looking Ahead
The evening concluded with short discussions about local arts, including MCLA’s upcoming production of We’re Gonna Die, and reflections on progressive R&B in contemporary music.
WOCI and MERC organizers described the event as a space for students to think critically about cultural issues and exchange perspectives in a welcoming environment. More events of this kind are planned for later in the semester.
