Public Affairs Conference - Finally … Nope, Never Mind: The Challenges of Internet Isolation

Live Zoom webinar panel session (see conference website for Zoom link)

Internet access is a necessity in all facets of the modern world. However, this access is not readily available to everyone, even in America. In 2020, more than 98% of Americans had access to terrestrial broadband internet, yet only 74% of rural residents had similar access, according to the Pew Research Center. Many rural areas are trapped with slow internet speeds or have no service at all. High expense and income disparities also affect connectivity and device access. What impact does this digital divide have on education, healthcare, farming, local economies and other vital aspects of American society? How might bridging this divide address educational and socio-economic disparities? Whose responsibility is it to ensure equal access to what has become a necessity in the 21st century?