All posts by Editor-in-Chief

Deborah Levine founded the American Diversity Report in 2006. She is a Forbes Magazine top "Trailblazer" and award-winning author of 20 books. Her published articles span decades including: American Journal of Community Psychology, Journal of Public Management & Social Policy, The Bermudian Magazine, The Harvard Divinity School Bulletin.
AI, Levine articles

Strategy Behind the SIETAR  AI Symposium: ADR Interview with Papa Balla Ndong

AI SymposiumAmerican Diversity Report

Bridging Cultures with Code

ADR (Deborah Levine): Papa Balla, thank you for joining us. You’ve worn many hats in the AI and intercultural world , as the creator of SIETAR AI, the promoter of the Intercultural AI Framework, and a lead contributor to the EU ACT in GPAI. Could you start by telling us what inspired the creation of the Virtual SIETAR AI Symposium?

Papa Balla Ndong: Thank you for having me. The Virtual SIETAR AI Symposium was born from a sense of urgency to ensure that intercultural perspectives are not an afterthought in the AI space, but a foundation. AI is shaping how we work, communicate, and understand the world. Yet, without cultural sensitivity and ethical alignment, it risks deepening global inequities. The symposium is a space where engineers, educators, policymakers, and cultural practitioners can co-create a more inclusive and responsible AI future.

ADR: How does the Intercultural AI Framework inform the structure or strategy of the Symposium?

Ndong: The Framework is the backbone. It’s not just a theory , it’s a methodology that centers on three pillars: intercultural sensitivity, iterative dialogue, and ethical adaptability. Each session in the symposium maps to one of these, whether we’re discussing dataset bias, AI ethics across borders, or the human element in machine learning. We’re not just talking about inclusion; we’re practicing it through multilingual panels, cross-regional collaboration, and time zone-aware scheduling.

ADR: SIETAR AI is still quite new. What role does it play in this initiative?

Ndong: SIETAR AI is our think-and-do tank. It connects interculturalists who may never have imagined themselves working with AI. Through this platform, we’ve trained educators on AI literacy, advised on ethical AI curricula, and collaborated with tech developers to humanize AI systems. For the Symposium, SIETAR AI serves as the bridge between the intercultural field and the technological ecosystem.

ADR: You were also selected as a lead contributor for the EU ACT within GPAI. How has that shaped your perspective on global AI governance?

Ndong: Immensely. Being part of GPAI’s EU ACT group means engaging in the practical drafting of codes of conduct and frameworks that could shape legislation. What I bring to the table, and advocate for — is the recognition of cultural plurality. We must understand that a one-size-fits-all approach to AI ethics won’t work. African values, Asian philosophies, Indigenous epistemologies — they all matter. The Symposium reflects this ethos by offering a platform for those voices to be heard and integrated into AI norms.

ADR: This all sounds very ambitious. What are the main challenges you’ve faced in organizing the Symposium?

Ndong: Time and trust. Coordinating across continents is a logistical puzzle. But even more, gaining the trust of communities who’ve been excluded from tech dialogues takes time. We’re saying: “Your voice is not only valid — it’s vital.” That shift doesn’t happen overnight. We’re learning to listen deeply and build long-term partnerships, not just events.

ADR: Who are some of the key collaborators or participants in this year’s edition?

Ndong: We’re bringing together UNESCO experts on education and technology, grassroots AI developers from Africa and Latin America, European policymakers, and even artists and poets. AI isn’t just technical — it’s deeply cultural and emotional. 

ADR: And what would success look like for you, after the Symposium ends?

Ndong: Success is a seed. If someone leaves the symposium with a new partnership, a project idea, or simply the sense that they belong in the AI conversation — then we’ve done our job. We want the Intercultural AI Framework to live beyond documents and symposiums. It must become a living practice.

ADR: Finally, for our readers who might want to get involved, how can they connect?

Ndong: We’re open. Anyone can join the mailing list of SIETAR AI, attend the symposium (many sessions are free), or contribute to our collaborative Intercultural AI Framework. This is a global dialogue, and everyone has a seat at the table.

ADR: Thank you, Papa Balla. Your work is a reminder that technology without culture is incomplete — and that the future of AI must be both human and humane.

Ndong: Thank you — and may we build that future, together.

 

Note: Deborah will give a presentation on Intercultural Leadership in the Age of AI for the Symposium on Friday, April 11. 

DL Opinion columns, Religious Diversity

Enjoy sacred times with respect and joy – by Deborah Levine

1 Comment

Originally published in The Chattanooga Times Free Press

As we approach this year’s holy days, we know that faith can be a source of great inspiration. We also know that religions can also generate the most divisive forces on the face of the planet. There are wars fought in the name of religion, as the Middle East demonstrates and many people prefer to be in the unaffiliated or atheist categories rather than be associated with organized religion. But diverse religions are part of the world reality and regardless of your faith or non-faith, ignorance of religions and religious traditions doesn’t help anything. Religious literacy is a must-have when you encounter and/or work with diverse religions whether they are fellow employees, friends, markets, or communities. Yes, it’s a bumpy road, but well worth traveling.

Continue reading Enjoy sacred times with respect and joy – by Deborah Levine →

DL Opinion columns

Stop ignoring sexual misconduct – by Deborah Levine

Originally published in The Chattanooga Times Free Press

I was amazed when Biden, just before his end as president, declared the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as the 28th Amendment to the Constitution. About time! Did you know that 85% of UN Member States already protect against sex and/or gender-based discrimination in their constitutions.  And recently, the UN Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women asked Biden to ensure the ERA’s role. So exciting! But I have no doubt that there will be push back and legal challenges echoing our century-long fight for gender equality. 

Continue reading Stop ignoring sexual misconduct – by Deborah Levine →

DL Opinion columns, Holocaust/antisemitism

Remembering the Holocaust and learning from it – by Deborah Levine 

Originally published in The Chattanooga Times Free Press

I was honored to be interviewed by a university’s Holocaust and Genocide Education Center for International Holocaust Remembrance Day. I’ve worked in Holocaust education for more than 40 years, starting before I learned that my dad was a US military intelligence officer assigned to interrogate Nazi POWs. I did know that he’d been a soldier in World War II because as a kid, I found an old photo of him in uniform. Always a curious little critter, I asked, “Daddy, did you kill anyone in the war?” He answered, “No, but I slapped somebody once…the Nazi said that Hitler was great, but should have killed more Jews.”

Continue reading Remembering the Holocaust and learning from it – by Deborah Levine  →

DL Opinion columns

Chattanooga’s Helping Hands Reach Ukraine – by Deborah Levine

Originally published in The Chattanooga Times Free Press

My brain was numb even before that White House meeting with Zelensky, Trump and Vance (Z,T, V). My brain cells started to explode days earlier when Trump declared Russia’s invasion was all Ukraine’s fault. And when Trump mentioned World War III, I was suddenly back in the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis when the Cold War almost went nuclear. Thankfully, the Soviet Union dissolved into 15 independent countries, including Ukraine which definitely doesn’t want to be re-colonized by Russia. So, now what? 

Continue reading Chattanooga’s Helping Hands Reach Ukraine – by Deborah Levine →

Arts & Culture Podcasts

Bruce Sudano Podcast – Musical Ball of Fire

SudanoBruce Sudano: Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY,  Bruce formed his first band at age 13. At age 20, he scored his first hit on the music charts with “Ball of Fire“, which he co-wrote with Tommy James (Hanky Panky, Crimson and Clover, I Think We’re Alone Now). Sudano had written many of the songs for his band, Alive N Kickin’, but James’s mentorship elevated his work.

Hear Bruce talk about going to Hollywood, creating the band Brooklyn Dreams which provided background vocals for Donna Summer on her album I Remember Yesterday. When Bruce and Donna fell in love and married, their joined creativity grew. They co-wrote her smash hits including Starting Over Again which Dolly Parton recorded and became No. 1 on the Billboard Country Music Charts. Sudano also co-wrote Tell Me I’m Not Dreamin’ (Too Good to Be True) that Jermaine and Michael Jackson sang on Jermaine’s album. The track was nominated at the 1985 Grammy Awards. 

When Donna passed away, Sudano was grief stricken. But he grew to understand that creativity exists even in the depths of sorrow. His great loss ultimately led to a period of creative growth, releasing 6 albums and many singles, and now: Talkin’ Ugly Truth, Tellin’ Pretty Lies.

Be inspired by Bruce’s podcast interview: CLICK HERE

Black-Jewish Dialogue, Levine articles

Let’s Revive Black-Jewish Dialogue – by Deborah Levine

Celebrating Black History Month at Mizpah congregation brought together members of Chattanooga’s Black and Jewish communities with the synagogue’s “Intriguing conversation”. These conversations are facilitated by Jed Mescon, a well-known media figure here in Chattanooga. Jed’s February interview was with John Edwards III, founder of The Chattanooga News Chronicle, our prominent African American newspaper. The flier announcing the event described  Edwards as a civil rights hero who uses the typewriter to ensure that people of all colors enjoy the rights and freedoms that we often take for granted. 

Continue reading Let’s Revive Black-Jewish Dialogue – by Deborah Levine →

Books, Levine articles

Book Signing at Barnes & Noble: The Art of Resilience

          THE ART OF RESILIENCE: From Pain to Promise

Chattanooga, TN: Join Deborah Levine at Barnes and Noble in Hamilton Place on Sunday, September 29 from 2-4pm as she shares her journey to resilience at every level: physical, mental, and spiritual. The true stories of The Art of Resilience demonstrate the power of fierce determination and each story provides helpful lessons learned. Be inspired by the spiritual aspect of these stories  that Deborah has learned from Judaism’s mystic tradition.

“Wow! What an incredible life and book. Deborah Levine is a masterful storyteller who weaves lessons in resilience through her personal experiences. Throughout her life, she has exemplified resilience in her ability to adapt, adjust, and flourish in spite of, or perhaps because of, the many challenges she has faced. Deborah truly mastered The Art of Resilience!” 
~ Dr. Gail A. Dawson: Associate Prof. of Management, Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Gary W. College of Rollins College/U. of Tennessee at Chattanooga 

“Deborah hits another home run with her newest book! She mines her personal history of successes and health setbacks to emphasize lessons for us. We’re easily discouraged today and Deborah is an excellent example of creative overcoming through inner resources, societal cooperation, and divine inspiration. Where most would have given up, Deborah set goals, achieved them, and then set new goals to improve community and the world. If you’re discouraged, read her book and try these lessons.”
~ Marc Brenman: Former Exec. Director of Washington State Human Rights Commission, served with the Office for Civil Rights of the U.S Dept. of Education.

“The Art of Resilience: From Pain to Promise is a compelling exploration of the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity and transform suffering into strength. The book, written by someone deeply familiar with the challenges of life, delves into the personal stories, psychological insights, and practical strategies that empower individuals to not just survive difficult times but to thrive in the face of them.”
~ Zen Benefield: passionate coach dedicated to guiding individuals toward personal and professional transformation. 

About the Author – Deborah J. Levine
Deborah is author of 20 books, Founder/Editor of American Diversity Report, Forbes Magazine top Diversity & Inclusion Trailblazer, and Holocaust documentary creator. Awards include: SoLit Local Distinguished Author Award, Books for Peace, Women’s Federation for World Peace, Religion Communicators Council, National Catholic Press Assoc.

DL Opinion columns

The power and influence of storytelling – by Deborah Levine

(originally published in The Chattanooga Times Free Press)

Once upon a time, there was a storytelling festival held in Chattanooga’s Coolidge Park called TaleSpin. I remember this 2008 event because I was recruited by Vincent Phipps to be one of the storytellers. I hesitated, but he reassured, coached, and encouraged me until I changed my mind and attitude. TaleSpin no longer takes place here, but I was set on a storytelling path that expanded exponentially. Vincent evolved into the top 1% of the World’s Best Communication Experts. This matters because in these “interesting times”, storytelling is key to being heard and seen.

Continue reading The power and influence of storytelling – by Deborah Levine →

DL Opinion columns

Need a break? Take in history on the riverfront – by Deborah Levine

originally published in The Chattanooga Times Free Press

We’ve been glued to the news on TV and internet day and night. Definitely time to take a break from holding my breath. What to do? We decided to go to the riverfront, become one with the river’s flow and check out the replicas of Christopher Columbus’ Nina and Pinta. This history buff was fascinated by the ancient boats that sailed the seas. And they brought back fond ocean memories of my island girl youth.