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Technology has a central role in all the component of the learn-and-work ecosystem — in credentialing, employer hiring, career navigation, communications, policy, data systems, and so many other areas. However, many communities lack access to high-speed Internet, and many cannot afford Internet access and related technology or don't know how to use the many tools of technology.
The “digital divide” is the result of a lack of digital equity. An equitable economy requires access to reliable and affordable high-speed Internet and related technology tools.
Policy is at the center of the digital equity movement. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act) was passed by the U.S. Congress in 2021. This Act will ensure that every American has access to high-speed internet (among its other components to rebuild America’s roads, bridges and rails, expand access to clean drinking water, tackle the climate crisis, advance environmental justice, and invest in communities that have too often been left behind).
The Act will: “Ensure every American has access to reliable high-speed internet. Broadband internet is necessary for Americans to do their jobs, to participate equally in school learning, health care, and to stay connected. Yet, by one definition, more than 30 million Americans live in areas where there is no broadband infrastructure that provides minimally acceptable speeds – a particular problem in rural communities throughout the country. And, according to the latest OECD data, among 35 countries studied, the United States has the second highest broadband costs. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal will deliver $65 billion to help ensure that every American has access to reliable high-speed internet through a historic investment in broadband infrastructure deployment. The legislation will also help lower prices for internet service and help close the digital divide, so that more Americans can afford internet access.” (Fact Sheet: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, November 6, 2021)
Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, The Digital Equity Act provides $2.75 billion to establish three grant programs to promote digital equity and inclusion. They aim to ensure that all people and communities have the skills, technology, and capacity needed to reap the full benefits of our digital economy. The Digital Equity Act Programs Program launched three federal grant programs:
Many groups are working to address digital equity. For example, the National Digital Inclusion Alliance connects organizations engaged with technology and broadband development issues. NDIA’s four pillars that guide its work are to:
The NDIA has contributed to the development of a vocabulary around digital equity. Its National Digital Inclusion Alliance Definitions provide definitions for the following key terms:
All the component of the learn-and-work ecosystem require the use of technology. However, many individuals, and entire communities lack access to high-speed Internet and related technology tools. A well-functioning learn-and-work ecosystem requires access to reliable and affordable high-speed Internet and related technology tools.
Fact Sheet: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, November 6, 2021. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/11/06/fact-sheet-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal/
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