Mavis Beacon, a name that resonates with anyone who learned to type in the late 20th century, is the focus of a new documentary by queer filmmakers Jazmin Renée Jones and Olivia McKayla Ross. In “Seeking Mavis Beacon,” the duo embarks on a journey to uncover the true story behind the AI character who taught millions to type, and who also happened to be a Black woman, an often overlooked fact in the annals of technology history.
The documentary delves into the broader implications of Mavis Beacon’s legacy, especially for Black women who saw themselves represented in a field where they were rarely depicted. One subject in the film reflects on the significance of learning from a Black woman, expressing a sense of pride that the authoritative figure in typing instruction was someone who looked like them. This representation was not just about learning a skill; it was about challenging the stereotypes of who could be seen as an expert or leader in technology.
Jones and Ross bring humor, intellect, and a deep curiosity to their investigation, all while posing important questions about identity and artificial intelligence. The film not only seeks to find the real woman behind Mavis Beacon but also explores the societal and cultural impact of her presence in the world of early technology. As one voice in the film suggests, Mavis Beacon stands as a symbol of the untapped potential and the “tremendous frenzy of brain storm” that Black women contribute to society.
With an original score by Fatima Al Qadiri, “Seeking Mavis Beacon” is set to open in select cities, promising to reignite conversations about representation, identity, and the power of imagery in shaping our understanding of who can lead and who we should learn from. This documentary is not just a look back at a piece of software; it’s a tribute to the legacy of Black women in technology and a reminder of the importance of representation in all fields. The impact of such representation on the LGBTQ+ community, especially Black queer individuals, is profound, as it underscores the importance of visibility and the celebration of diverse identities in media and technology.
