Diversity Equity Inclusion

The digital divide has typically been described as the separation of those who can afford and benefit from the internet and digital technologies and those who do not. Digital equity is the status of all people, particularly racially and financially marginalized groups, having the information and communications technology needed to fully participate in modern society. Digital inclusion is the practices of realizing and addressing these inadequacies. 

According to the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, there are 5 elements to digital inclusion:

• affordable, robust broadband internet services
• internet-enabled devices that meet the needs of the user
• access to digital literacy training
• quality technical support
• applications and online content designed to enable and encourage self-sufficiency, participation and collaboration.

• The Affordable Broadband Act (ABA) requires internet service providers (ISPs) in New York State, with limited exceptions, to offer reduced-cost plans to qualifying households.
• ConnectALL  The mission of ConnectALL is to build New York State's digital infrastructure and connect all New Yorkers through the internet. The ConnectALL Office oversees the NYS Digital Equity Plan and the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program.
• NYSDEN  NYS Digital Equity Network is comprised of several regional digital inclusion and digital equity coalitions, including the Capital Region Digital Equity Coalition. 
• NYS Digital Equity Portal  The NYS Digital Equity Portal is an interactive, online data mapping tool for communities across the state seeking data on New Yorkers’ ability to access the internet to advance digital equity.

Digital Navigators are people trained to address digital inequity issues. They help individual community members with accessing internet connectivity at home, obtaining affordable devices, and developing digital skills. Below are some local examples of digital navigator programs in New York State.

• Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley

Here is more information about how to start a digital navigator program. 

• Community Tech Network  Become a Digital Navigator with CTN!
• Digital Navigator  Digital US coalition
• Digital Navigator Toolkit  Pilot program at the Salt Lake City Public Library