Reliable internet access is essential for finding employment, staying informed, and keeping pace with a fast-changing world. But the digital divide continues to keep many Americans from accessing key online services. About 70% of adult Americans have smartphones, but not all have a data plan or the necessary internet skills. And 44 million Americans lack high-speed internet access. The COVID-19 crisis has brought new awareness to the digital divide and its significant impact on lower-income school children. Will the current “homework gap” become an educational crisis in the future? Is digital equity achievable?
We will hear from a panel of experts from the public and private sectors, as well as leaders from philanthropy and academia—all discussing the importance of partnerships in closing the digital divide.
We will hear from:
- Kate Garman, Senior Associate, Cityfi; Former Technology Policy Advisor to Mayor Jenny Durkan, Seattle WA
- Greta Byrum, Director of Community Tech NY, and co-director of the Digital Equity Laboratory at The New School
- Justina Nixon-Saintil, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, Verizon
