#United States #San Diego #Voice Actors #San Diego Comic-Con #AI Concerns

NAVA to Address AI Concerns at San Diego Comic-Con

The National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA) is stepping into the spotlight at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) to address pressing concerns regarding the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and voice acting. After a series of impactful advocacy successes, NAVA will present a pivotal panel discussion titled Creators in the Age of AI on Saturday, July 26.

For many creators, the rapid advancements in AI technologies are reshaping their industry, affecting both livelihood and creativity. Acknowledging these challenges, NAVA aims to provide a platform for dialogue among voice actors, directors, and industry professionals to share experiences and strategies for protecting their rights as creators.

NAVA’s President and co-founder, Tim Friedlander, emphasized the importance of engagement in such a transformative period in the industry. "As voice actors, it’s essential for us to confront these developments and seek protective measures that ensure fair treatment within the creative film and media landscape," he remarked. The organization is keen to unify industry voices to create frameworks that not only understand AI's role but also ensure its application uplifts human creativity rather than diminishes it.

The panel discussion will draw from personal experiences and recent legislative developments that have a significant impact on the industry. Following strong advocacy in Washington D.C. and Sacramento, where NAVA successfully campaigned against a damaging provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill (H.R. 1) that could have impeded state-level AI regulations, the stage is set for crucial conversations. This provision threatened the ability of states to enact protections for creators, which makes NAVA’s presence and discussions at Comic-Con even more impactful.

Philip Bache, a voice director participating in the panel, expressed the urgency of open communication and collaboration among creators. He stated, "We are exploring new territory with AI in our field; sharing knowledge and supporting one another is crucial in building a future where innovation enhances our work, rather than replaces it."

The Creators in the Age of AI panel will be hosted by Linsay Rousseau, a voice actor known for her work on Transformers War for Cybertron. She will be joined by notable figures including Philip Bache, JP Karliak (President of QueerVox), Phillip Boutté, Jr. (Co-founder of 9B Collective), Tim Friedlander, and Matthew Parham (NAVA Dir. of Operations). Each panelist will bring their unique perspectives and expertise to foster a well-rounded dialogue about the current AI landscape and its implications for voice actors.

Panel Details:

• - Title: Creators in the Age of AI
• - Venue: Omni Grand Ballroom DE, 4th Floor
• - Date and Time: Saturday, July 26 | 4 - 5 p.m. PT

NAVA’s mission transcends advocacy; it aims to enhance inclusivity and representation within the voice acting community. By facilitating educational opportunities and providing resources, NAVA seeks to empower voice actors to navigate the ever-evolving landscape shaped by technological advancements.

As the conversation around AI continues to grow, NAVA is committed to ensuring that the voices of creative individuals are neither overlooked nor diminished. The forthcoming panel at San Diego Comic-Con presents a vital opportunity to engage with key stakeholders in budding discussions, with an emphasis on empowerment, collaboration, and forward-thinking approaches to protect artistic expression.

For more details about NAVA and its advocacy efforts, visit www.navavoices.org.