Digital Equity Act At Risk

President Donald Trump recently called the Digital Equity Act “racist” and “unconstitutional,” but that claim is both misleading and dangerous. The Digital Equity Act, signed into law in 2021 as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is a vital investment in closing the digital divide, a divide that leaves millions of Americans without access to the internet, digital devices, or the skills to use them.

The law identifies eight “covered populations” who face barriers to digital access, including rural residents, older adults, people with disabilities, veterans, low-income households, individuals with language barriers, and yes, racial and ethnic minorities. This is not racism; this is a recognition of reality. Data clearly shows that communities of color have been disproportionately affected by lack of access to digital tools and infrastructure. Ensuring everyone can participate in our increasingly digital society is not unconstitutional, it is common sense.

Labeling equity efforts as discriminatory is a deliberate attempt to undermine policies that make our country fairer and more connected. We stand firmly in support of the Digital Equity Act and the transformative impact it’s already having across the country. Digital access is a right, not a privilege, and we won’t back down from that truth.

SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

Net Inclusion 2025

We are excited to participate in Net Inclusion 2025, held May 20-22 in the Gila River Indian Community, Arizona. At this national digital inclusion conference, we will participate in three sessions on building digital inclusion programs, integrating AI into digital skills training, and enhancing staff and volunteer training.

NCOA Age+Action Conference

digitalLIFT’s Founding Executive Director, Kami Griffiths, will present at the 2025 NCOA Age+Action Conference, sharing strategies for expanding tech programming to better support older adults. Her session will offer practical tools and insights to help senior centers build inclusive digital literacy programs that foster confidence, safety, and connection.

STORIES & SPOTLIGHTS

Volunteers are Appreciated!

In April, we celebrate our incredible volunteers, whose dedication, skills, and passion help create a vibrant and supportive community

Introducing digitalLIFT’s new Board Chair: Kimberly Harris

Kimberly Harris, a seasoned leader in aging, technology, and digital equity, is our newest Board Chair, bringing decades of experience to advance our mission of fostering inclusive digital access.

Lake County Launches Digital Navigator Program to Expand Access and Skills

We partnered with Lake County, Illinois to expand digital access and skills through training, curriculum, and support for a new Digital Navigator Program that empowers residents and bridges the broadband gap for thousands of underserved households.