Equal Access to Technology: A Guide for The Socially Conscious

Over the last few months, we have witnessed and experienced massive social injustices from the COVID-19 pandemic to increased awareness of police brutality and racist institutional structures.

These problems are massive and have been with us for a long time.  I don’t think there’s only one solution or a magic wand to fix everything now. It takes time and multi-generational efforts to overcome social inequalities.

However, the new generation today is influenced and is growing up in the age of the internet and smartphone. They know technological possibilities are limitless and at the fingertips of every individual.  The smallest voice can be at the forefront of change on a platform before everyone’s eyes.

We know technology has already changed our economy and our way of life. But what if we could use it to enable youth to have the same access to opportunities regardless of where they live or their family’s income status? I believe this is possible. It would need a massive commitment by the community, private sector, and individual.

Here are 3 ideas for how technology offers a new set of solutions

1. Provide laptops to every child in low-income families. Similar to a type of financial aid that helps youth have access to education.
2. Provide internet access for everyone. Particularly for people who need financial assistance.
3. Create Technology Centers in low-income communities.  People attending these spaces can have access to technology and the internet. It would be like a library, but there would be computers, internet, printing, scanning, multimedia, and support or training on how to use the materials.

Reflections

I’m grateful to be able to work in an environment with the flexibility to work from home sometimes, continue graduate school remotely, and pursue my love for yoga. But I understand that not everyone has the privilege of the same technological resources at home. I’ve experienced this lack of access, and I see it every day in my community and across the country.

There were many times when I did not have home internet or a working laptop. The high monthly cost for home Wi-Fi is not a priority when rent, utilities, food, and health are a priority.  I often relied on coffee shops, libraries, and other public spaces with free Wi-Fi or computers. Through high school and college, this was a significant source of stress and frustration.

Call to Action

It is time for the Tech Companies — Google, Apple, Microsoft, Dell, IBM, AT&T, Verizon, and other primary computer and internet suppliers — to help and provide some access to equipment, internet, and related technologies.

Some companies, becoming known as Socially Conscious, are already working towards supporting the fight against social inequities.

Google continues to provide grants to help with social impact initiatives. Spectrum offered free internet for some students.

I think we should expand this limited initiative and invite AT&T, Verizon, and other internet providers to participate nationally.  Additionally, computer suppliers like Apple and Dell could help provide computers to those in need.

If TOMS Shoes, Inc. could donate a pair of shoes for every pair that they sold, certainly Apple can give 1 free computer for 10 they sell.

Conclusion

The gap between “Haves” and “Have Nots” is growing. What used to be just a concern of limited financial resources for real life opportunities is now combined with the lack of access to technology.

Technology and information surround us, and they are continuously changing. Adverse circumstances have led people in society without equal access to information to be separated from those with access.  I genuinely believe the private sector and the local community can come together and bring the change – enabling youth to have equal access to information. They can then continue to grow and adapt in our world with technology as the bridge to prosperity.

I’d love to hear any other ideas about how technology should be used to improve the issues facing our society.

B Strong,

Aysha