The NAACP and environmental justice organizations are calling out big tech for what they describe as "dirty data centers," industrial sites that use large amounts of water and energy, often located in communities of color.
"We are being treated as extractive colonies for the profits of billionaires, and their tech companies," said State Representative for District 86, Justin Pearson.
"When is justice going to be a priority for the people in Westwood and Boxtown? Elon Musk's xAI is a reckless experiment that costs Black families their health," said KeShaun Pearson, Executive Director of Memphis Community Against Pollution (MCAP).
They said the rise in AI data centers is putting pressure on aging water systems and endangering public health.
"And they contribute to rising levels of air pollution. These have been linked to serious health issues, including asthma, respiratory issues, and developmental challenges in children," said President and CEO of Young, Gifted & Green, Latricea Adams.
The two-day conference brings leaders from across the country together. They're working to create a set of principles that tech companies would need to follow before they build.
"It is time for our government to take a stand and enforce stricter regulations on emissions from these facilities. We demand transparency and the operators and accountability for the health impact they impose on Black communities," said Adams.
Advocates said this is just the beginning of a national movement with local impact.
"Our expectation is that if any company threatens to harm the health of this united collective, the avenue is to shut it down for them as well," said Abre' Conner, Director of Environmental and Climate Justice at the NAACP.
Advocates have filed an appeal against permits issued by the Shelby County Health Department.
The MCAP is also installing community sensors to monitor air pollution, with a report due in October. Advocates plan to finalize guidelines and urge tech companies to follow them.
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