Greetings and a warm welcome to our June newsletter! Get ready to dive into the world of digital equity as we bring you the latest updates, inspiring stories, and impactful initiatives that are driving positive change.
DIGITAL EQUITY EFFORTS IN CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL VALLEY
CTN partnered with EAH Housing to launch a new digital equity initiative in California’s Central Valley. The program is designed to equip individuals with the skills that they need to navigate the digital world and take advantage of the opportunities presented by technology. The first cohort of learners at Summer Park in Fresno recently graduated. Learn more about this initiative and about Yanely Gonzalez, a Central Valley native who is leading the effort.
THE STATE OF DIGITAL EQUITY
IN CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS
While CTN works with organizations across the nation, our main offices are located in California and Texas. In both of these states, the digital divide continues to impact communities, although in distinct ways. Learn more about the unique set of challenges that each state faces, as well as the current efforts to promote digital inclusion in both California and Texas.
SHAPING RECENT DIGITAL INCLUSION POLICIES IN CALIFORNIA, TEXAS, AND ACROSS THE US
Texas. In order to better understand the digital barriers that Texans face, the state’s Broadband Development Office created a survey about internet accessibility, affordability, and adoption. The survey only takes about 10 minutes to complete and will be open until mid-June. If you live in the Lone Star State, consider sharing your insights and experience — they can play a crucial role in shaping effective digital equity strategies. Learn more about the survey.
California. The proposed Digital Equity Bill of Rights (AB414) aims to ensure that everyone across the state has access to the internet. The legislation was placed on hold, and a hearing was held on May 18 to decide whether or not to push the bill forward. Thousands of Californians contacted their legislators and signed petitions in support of AB414, and their efforts were successful — the bill will move forward so that it can be voted on by the California Assembly and hopefully passed into law. Check our blog for more on AB414.
Nationally. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), recently solicited feedback about the Digital Equity Act, a federal initiative to promote digital inclusion across the U.S. Drawing on our 15 years of experience, CTN submitted an 11-page response with recommendations. We particularly prioritized the need to amplify the voices of marginalized communities when working to bridge the digital divide. Read more about our response to the NTIA and digital equity suggestions.
ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH
Last month was Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. Check out our blog to learn about the digital divide in AAPI communities, and read our spotlight on Vy Vo, a bilingual (Vietnamese/English) digital literacy instructor who is committed to ensuring that Asian-American communities have access to resources that they need, including technology.
We hope you find these updates informative and inspiring as we continue our mission to ensure digital equity for all. Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to creating a more inclusive and connected society.
Stay connected,
Kami Griffiths
Executive Director and Co-Founder
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