During the week of May 7-11, 2018, Seattle Information Technology joined 300 affiliated organizations in 38 states for a nationwide online event to recognize Digital Inclusion Week. The purpose is to amplify the message that all individuals and communities, including the most disadvantaged, need equitable access to use the internet. We know digital inclusion requires intentional strategies and investments to reduce and eliminate historical, institutional, and structural barriers to access and use technology. The work to attain these goals is outlined in the City’s Digital Equity Initiative.
During this week we have used social media to amplify the message of digital inclusion week:
Our Twitter handle came alive with the faces of Seattle IT staff who are passionate about #DigitalEquityIs
- Our Facebook page also helped call attention to the importance of digital equity
We were honored to have Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan write a guest post on our Tech Talk blog where she talked about Seattle’s long history of leading the way on digital innovation. She also humbly acknowledged that not everyone in our city has benefitted from the technological revolution. She discussed the challenges for many of finding a job online, having access to the internet, or helping their children with online homework when access to the internet, technology, and devices are a challenge. She also highlighted the City’s efforts to close the digital divide in Seattle.
Community Technology Manager Chance Hunt blogged about the problem of being “Under Connected.” Although 93% of Seattleites have the internet, not all have strong data or speed. Some have cost barriers, insufficient devices, and don’t have the tech support. The post outlined solutions and the work Seattle is doing to improve digital equity.
It’s been an enjoyable and successful week. We were happy to highlight our Seattle IT employees and share their feelings on digital equity. We look forward sharing even more next year!
To sign up for future announcements on about our Digital Equity program, join our listserv featured on our Digital Equity page.