NAACP Urges Immediate Action Against xAI’s Memphis Data Center
The NAACP has called on Memphis officials to suspend operations at Colossus, a high-powered supercomputer facility operated by Elon Musk’s xAI in South Memphis. The civil rights organization alleges the facility violates environmental regulations and poses severe health risks to nearby communities.
Key Concerns Raised by the NAACP
In a formal letter addressed to the Shelby County Health Department and Memphis Light Gas and Water (MLGW), the NAACP criticized the agencies for their “lackadaisical approach” to regulating xAI’s operations. The group demanded:
- An emergency shutdown order for the facility
- Enforcement of clean air laws to curb alleged violations
- Greater accountability for industrial pollution in marginalized neighborhoods
Health and Environmental Risks
The letter highlights the facility’s reliance on 15 gas turbines, which xAI has sought to permit for continued use. However, the NAACP claims the company has been operating up to 35 turbines without proper authorization, emitting hazardous pollutants such as:
- Formaldehyde (exceeding EPA limits)
- Nitrogen oxides (linked to respiratory illnesses)
According to reports, these emissions disproportionately affect Boxtown, a historically Black community where cancer risks are already four times the national average.
NAACP’s Strong Stance
Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO, condemned the situation:
“AI has potential benefits, but sacrificing Black communities’ health for innovation is unacceptable. Elon Musk’s company shouldn’t operate above the law.”
The NAACP argues the facility’s location perpetuates environmental injustice, with industries disproportionately polluting minority neighborhoods.
Official Responses and Next Steps
The Shelby County Health Department’s director, Michelle Taylor, is transitioning to a new role in Baltimore. Meanwhile, MLGW stated it had not yet received the NAACP’s letter at the time of reporting.
TechCrunch has reached out to xAI for comment. Updates will follow as the story develops.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated to include a statement from NAACP CEO Derrick Johnson.
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