AI and Us - Cambridge Town Hall Sparks a Community Conversation About the Future

What does a future shaped by artificial intelligence look like—and who gets to decide? In December 2025, nearly 150 artists, scientists, policymakers, students, and community members gathered at the Cambridge Public Library to answer that question together. The event, AI and Us Town Hall, wasn’t just a discussion—it was a movement toward building a more humane and equitable AI future.

A Showcase of Ideas and Innovation

The evening began with a vibrant showcase of community projects exploring AI’s possibilities and challenges. High school students, researchers, and local organizations shared creative solutions and bold visions, proving that innovation isn’t confined to tech labs—it thrives in classrooms, libraries, and neighborhoods.

Attendees added their hopes, concerns, and ideas to the Community Commitment Wall, a living canvas of voices calling for an AI future where everyone belongs in the story.

Voices That Matter

The keynote speaker, Dr. Nettrice Gaskins, a renowned digital artist, set the tone with her talk, “Why Our Voices Matter in AI.” Her message was clear: technology should amplify human creativity and diversity—not erase it. Two dynamic panels followed.

A Community Conversation That Matters

Audience members didn’t just listen—they engaged. Questions flowed about ethics, equity, and the human impact of AI. Fears and hopes were voiced, and ideas for collaboration emerged. The event, co-hosted by Cambridge Public Library, Innovators for Purpose (iFp), The Hope Group, and Joint Family, created an intergenerational, cross-disciplinary dialogue that will ripple far beyond one evening.

Looking Ahead

AI is transforming the world—but in Cambridge, the future isn’t being written by algorithms alone. It’s being shaped by artists and engineers, students and scientists, neighbors and policymakers. Because when it comes to technology that touches every part of our lives, your voice belongs in the conversation.