Digital Equity in King County
DIGITAL EQUITY BASICS
What is Digital Equity?
Digital equity is a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy. Digital equity is necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services.
Equity vs Equity?
It is important to note here the use of “equity” vs. “equality.” When we use the word equity, we accurately acknowledge the systemic barriers that must be dismantled before achieving equality for all.
National Digital Inclusion Alliance
Digital Equity in Our Community
The City of Seattle started its digital equity work in 1996 with a commitment to ensure residents could obtain government information and participate online. In 1997, the City and community created a set of values for a Technologically Healthy Community and started the Technology Matching Fund grant program. In 2016, prior to the 2020 Internet for All guiding resolution, the City worked with a wide range of stakeholders, City Departments and leadership to develop a Digital Equity Action Plan. This plan was developed with more than 100 community leaders, non-profit organizations, companies, and members of the public participating. They helped identify needs, a vision and possible strategies (See first vision and strategies report). Our digital equity initiatives are closely aligned with and further the City of Seattle broadband efforts, Race and Social Justice Initiative, and other education, neighborhood, equitable development, technology, cultural and human service goals.
Digital equity and inclusion - King County
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City of Seattle Digital Equity - Tech | seattle.gov
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Broadband
DELN is partnering with the city of Seattle, King County, and Washington State University in 2023 to work on furthering Broadband and Digital Equity planning county-wide through the state/federal planning process.
Contact us to get involved!
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Digital Skill Set for Diverse Users
City of Seattle and University of Washington IT, with the participation of many members of the DELN members, developed the Digital Skill Set for Diverse Users.
More information:
Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County
