When digital equity is achieved, individuals and communities will have access to affordable high-speed internet, appropriate devices, and the skills needed to navigate our ever-changing technological environment. The work to accomplish this goal is called Digital Inclusion. Join AMERIND Critical Infrastructure’s Digital Inclusion Manager, Davida Delmar (Navajo), as she shares the basics of digital inclusion and examples of digital inclusion happening in Indian Country. She will also share upcoming grant opportunities for Native entities interested in implementing digital inclusion programs. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to bridge the digital divide and create a more connected and empowered future for your Tribe. Register today and take the first step towards digital inclusion for all.
July 11, 2024
11 am MST
Link: https://bit.ly/4cz4m9V
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National Digital Inclusion Alliance Definitions:
Digital Equity
Digital equity is a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy. Digital equity is necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services.
Digital Inclusion
Digital Inclusion refers to the activities necessary to ensure that all individuals and communities, including the most disadvantaged, have access to and use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). This includes five elements:
1. Affordable, robust broadband internet service;
2. Internet-enabled devices that meet the needs of the user;
3. Access to digital literacy training;
4. Quality technical support; and
5. Applications and online content designed to enable and encourage self-sufficiency, participation, and collaboration.
Digital Inclusion must evolve as technology advances. Digital Inclusion requires intentional strategies and investments to reduce and eliminate historical, institutional, and structural barriers to access and use technology.
Digital Navigators
Digital navigators are trusted guides who assist community members in internet adoption and the use of computing devices. Digital navigation services include ongoing assistance with affordable internet access, device acquisition, technical skills, and application support.
Digital Inclusion Ecosystem
A Digital Inclusion Ecosystem is a combination of programs and policies that meet a geographic community’s unique and diverse needs. Coordinating entities work together in an ecosystem to address all aspects of the digital divide, including affordable broadband, devices, and skills.
Indicators of a strong Digital Inclusion Ecosystem:
- Existence of programs and policies addressing all aspects of the digital divide:
- Affordable and subsidized broadband service options that meet the community’s needs
- Affordable and subsidized device ownership programs that meet the community’s needs
- Multilingual digital literacy and digital skill trainings that meet the community’s needs
- Hardware and software technical support
- Digital navigation services to guide residents to the above services
- Collaboration: Entities providing local digital inclusion services, policymakers, advocates, social service providers and community leaders co-create solutions in partnership with the community.