Centering Digital Equity In Access and Adoption Strategies. The digital divide has a far-reaching impact on already underrepresented communities. An inability to access and utilize digital resources prevents individuals from fully contributing to, or being seen by, their communities and society at large. COVID-19 has only exacerbated the effects of existing digital inequities as many schools, public services, and healthcare have moved programs and services online for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, large segments of Indigenous, Black, Brown, rural, and low-income residents are simply unable to get online. 

That is among the many reasons why digital equity must be at the core of effective broadband access and adoption strategies. Communities that prioritize digital inclusion can help reduce poverty, increase educational opportunities, improve public health, and boost civic participation. NCC is committed to highlighting solutions for existing digital inequities and models that incorporate digital equity into broadband deployment plans. Importantly, NCC provides unique platforms for local officials and community leaders to share their own connectivity stories in their own words, so that solutions can be tailored to community-specific needs.