NDIA has two new definitions to add to our growing glossary. Definitions of “digital equity” and “digital inclusion” have been key to building the field and creating policy that addresses these areas. Our goal is to continue to co-create shared definitions with the community as we all work together toward digital equity.
Thank you to the dozens of people who contributed to these definitions through our listserv! The “broadband equity” definition received 31 unique comments, while the “digital divide” definition was formed with input from 39 community comments.
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Broadband equity is achieved when all people and communities are able to access and use affordable, high-speed, reliable internet that meets their long-term needs.
The digital divide is the gap between those who have affordable access, skills, and support to effectively engage online and those who do not. As technology constantly evolves, the digital divide prevents equal participation and opportunity in all parts of life, disproportionately affecting people of color, Indigenous peoples, households with low incomes, people with disabilities, people in rural areas, and older adults.