CivicTechWR - Guest Speaker Rory White, Civic Searchlight
This week at CivicTechWR we welcome guest speaker Rory White, creator of Civic Searchlight.
Rory White is a journalist working as a Technology and Democracy Reporter for Canada’s National Observer. He uses his background in data science to conduct digital investigations. He has covered anonymous fossil fuel ad campaigns, AI chatbots ventriloquizing local governments, tech platform moderation failures and disappearing net-zero pledges.
Canada’s National Observer recently launched a new tool named Civic Searchlight. For the first time, it allows researchers and journalists to search local council meeting transcripts across hundreds of Canadian municipalities. Rory will explain why he created the tool, how it works, and the role of journalism in driving new technology for democratic accountability.
We'll be doing a hybrid event tonight since Rory will be joining virtually. Meeting link: https://meet.google.com/mkb-zycy-gib
Agenda
5:30 - 6:00pm: Doors Open - Grab some food and refreshments, say hi, relax and recharge
6:00 - 6:15pm: Introductions and Announcements
6:15 - 6:45pm: Guest Speaker (virtual) - 15 minute presentation, 15 mins for discussion
6:45 - 7:45pm: Breakout Groups - Find a project group to work with
7:45 - 8:00pm: Progress report - Recap of what each group did and plans for next steps
8:00 - ???: OPTIONAL post-hacknight hangout
What is CivicTechWR?
CivicTechWR is a community group that brings together people from different sectors and backgrounds to actively solve civic challenges facing our local community using design and technology. We are part of a larger network of Civic Tech groups across Canada, loosely coordinated by Code for Canada. We welcome everyone who is interested in better understanding and finding solutions to civic challenges through technology, design or other innovative means. People of all backgrounds and skill levels are welcome to participate.
Do you have more questions?
Feel free to reach out by email at [email protected] or join us on Slack via this invite link.