The rise of “Artificial Intelligence” (AI) technology in computing presents a transformation in technology similar to the rise of social media, the Internet, possibly even personal computing itself. The Burlesque Hall of Fame (BHoF) recognizes that the potential benefits and new tools made possible by AI may be offset by a range of new harms, some inherent to the technology itself (e.g. escalating power and water usage) and some by the practices of companies in the fields (e.g. the illegal use of copyrighted works for AI training).

While avoiding all AI use entirely is not feasible given the way AI tools are being integrated into nearly every software and web platform, BHoF pledges to consider the adoption of AI tools carefully and with a commitment towards ethical and sustainable practices that center human empowerment, privacy, and accuracy. Just as we evaluate vendors (including software and service vendors) with a “risk minimization” perspective, preferring minority-owned, women-owned, local, and progressive vendors — while recognizing that there are often either no good alternatives or insufficient information available to properly evaluate all factors —  we will do the same regarding AI tools, giving preference to tools that are open source, privacy-forward, rights-respecting, environmentally sustainable, and so on. Where that can’t be accomplished, we will weigh carefully the potential for good against the potential for harm.

In accordance with these principles, we pledge to avoid the use of AI told to generate imagery for use in exhibitions, social media, merchandise, and promotional material, and to rely on human-created work from our archive or produced for us by artists and designers.

This policy will be re-evaluated by the BHoF board every year as the field evolves.

(Approved by the board 4/12/2026)