10 tech issues that will impact social justice in 2017

As we begin a new year and a new political administration takes office in the US, let’s take some time to consider some pressing issues that exist at the nexus of technology and social justice—and think about how we as social justice advocates can address them most effectively.
1. Online hate crimes, harassment, and discrimination are increasing
2. Fake news, campaigns of misinformation, bias, and propaganda proliferate
3. Trolling threatens democracy and free expression
4. Reduced regulation creates risks for consumers
5. Governmental databases put pressure on minority groups
6. Increased surveillance puts vulnerable groups under a microscope
7. Less attention to issues of algorithmic bias and online discrimination creates opportunities for abuse
8. Advocacy groups need digital security protections
9. Technology and data initiatives provide important support for social justice work
10. Developments in open government and transparency impact advocacy work