Big Tech is shaping how we live, work, and connect. That can be exciting, even empowering. But it is almost always happening in ways we do not fully see or control. The downsides of these technologies and the fine print in the contracts that come with them are often buried.

From data privacy violations to unreliable digital advertising to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, the stakes have never been higher for Vermont’s consumers, small businesses, and nonprofits.

This town hall series will give you the tools, the context, and the voice to push back and to help shape a future where technology works for all of Us.

Our Goals
Educate Vermonters about how technology affects privacy, businesses, and everyday life
Equip communities with practical steps to protect their data and their voices
Engage the public in shaping stronger protections and smarter policies
What to Expect at Each Event
Kickoff Conversation

What is privacy? A quick primer on the history of privacy rights in the U.S.
Why do we care? Real-world examples of how privacy impacts consumers, businesses, and communities.
Expert Insights

Data Privacy Violations: How your personal information is collected, used, and sometimes abused.
The Digital Ad Dilemma: How small businesses and nonprofits are affected by changes in online advertising.
Artificial Intelligence: What AI’s rapid rise means for jobs, ethics, and privacy.
Policy & Solutions

How regulation and innovation fit together.
Why states often lead on technology policy and where federal law falls short.
What you can do now to protect yourself when policy lags behind technology.
Action Steps

Why lasting change can’t fall on consumers alone.
How to share your stories, stay engaged, and push for smarter public policy.
Interactive Dialogue with Q&A

Bring your questions and ideas! We want your voices at the center of this conversation.
Who Should Attend
Vermonters curious or concerned about online privacy and security
Small business owners navigating changes in digital marketing
Nonprofit leaders looking to protect their organizations’ data and reputation
Anyone who wants to help shape Vermont’s response to Big Tech’s growing power
Monique Priestley, Vermont State Representative
Monique Priestley (she/her) is serving her second term as a Vermont State Representative (Orange-2), where she champions consumer protection—especially in data privacy, artificial intelligence, and right-to-repair—as well as the future of work. She serves as Clerk of the House Committee on Commerce & Economic Development and Vice Chair of the Joint Information Technology Oversight Committee. Nationally, she was appointed to the NCSL Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity & Privacy and serves on the NCSL Committees on Technology & Communications and Labor & Economic Development. Monique is Co-Chair of Vermont’s Rural Caucus, which received a 2023 Legislative Service Award from the Vermont League of Cities and Towns. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Future Caucus National Task Force on AI Policy and on the Steering Team of the Multi-State Legislative AI Working Group. Monique was named a 2024 EPIC National Champion of Freedom and a CSG Top 20 Under 40. She is an alum of the 2023 NCSL Emerging Leaders Program, the 2024 Future Caucus Policy Innovation Lab Fellowship, the 2024 CSG Eastern Leadership Academy, and the 2025 CSG Henry Toll Fellowship.

Zach Tomanelli, VPIRG Communications & Engagement Director
Before joining VPIRG, Zach was an Online Organizer and Community Director at the progressive news and activism website Firedoglake where he worked on everything from environmental protection to drug policy reform. He’s also spent time at the American Civil Liberties Union, Democracy Now!, Fairness & Accuracy in Reporting (FAIR) and National Public Radio. Zach is a 2011 graduate of Ithaca College with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. In his role at VPIRG, Zach manages all of VPIRG’s advocacy and outreach communications including emails, web posts, social media, mailings and publications. He’s also leads VPIRG advocacy efforts on digital consumer protection issues – fighting for data privacy/security, net neutrality and affordable high-speed internet access for all Vermonters. Zach also oversees VPIRG’s data, information and internal technology operations.