Two original research projects by the Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT) have been recognized at the 4th Annual Anthem Awards. The projects, titled “In Deep Trouble: Surfacing Tech-Powered Sexual Harassment in K-12 Schools” and “Moderating Maghrebi Arabic Content on Social Media,” received accolades for their contributions to purpose-driven work.
“In Deep Trouble” was awarded Bronze in the Responsible Technology Research Projects or Publications Awareness Category. This report, authored by Elizabeth Laird, Kristin Woelfel, and Maddy Dwyer of CDT, highlights the issue of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII) in U.S. K-12 public schools. The findings reveal that 15% of students are aware of AI-generated deepfake NCII involving peers, affecting approximately 2.3 million high-school students. Despite these findings, schools focus more on punishment than prevention and victim support.
Elizabeth Laird, CDT’s Director of Equity in Civic Technology, stated: “The alarming prevalence of tech-fueled sexual harassment in K-12 schools demands urgent attention. By amplifying student voices and uncovering the scale of AI-generated NCII, ‘In Deep Trouble’ aims to spark meaningful change in how schools address these harms—with a focus on prevention and supporting victims.”
The second project, “Moderating Maghrebi Arabic Content on Social Media,” won Silver in the Human & Civil Rights Research Projects or Publications Awareness Category. Authored by Mona Elswah from CDT and funded by Internet Society Foundation, this report examines content moderation biases affecting Maghrebi Arabic dialects. It addresses user tactics against moderation shortcomings and emphasizes the need for native speaker representation in automated systems.
Mona Elswah commented: “This research sheds light on the unique challenges of moderating underrepresented dialects like Maghrebi Arabic, from user tactics to moderator struggles and the critical need for native speaker representation.”
Patricia McLoughlin, General Manager of Anthem Awards, remarked: “The Winners of this year’s Anthem Awards are truly inspiring and I am honored to help elevate their impact.” The Anthem Awards were launched by The Webby Awards to honor mission-driven work globally.
