Thought Piece: The Digital Divide is Our Opportunity to Connect & Build Belonging

By Rob Roake, Director of Operations and Programming

If there is any good to come out of COVID-19, it might be that we have had new opportunities to come together as a State and to center community wisdom to address community challenges. One challenge that has been gaining both local and national momentum is the digital divide.

The digital divide refers to the gap between those with access to and proficiency with digital technologies and those without. This gap can manifest in various ways, including differences in access to high-speed internet, availability of digital devices, and digital literacy skills. In Utah, the digital divide can be particularly pronounced in rural areas where access to broadband internet may be limited or non-existent. Additionally, socioeconomic factors can contribute to disparities in digital access and skills, with lower-income households facing more significant challenges in accessing technology and developing digital fluency and empowerment.

Digital equity plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of belonging within communities and societies. In today's interconnected world, access to digital resources, technologies, and information is fundamental for individuals to fully participate in various aspects of life, including education, employment, civic engagement, and social interactions. When certain groups or communities lack equitable access to digital tools and resources, they are effectively excluded from the opportunities and benefits afforded by the digital age. The digital divide has a risk of growing at the same speed as technology advances if we are not intentional about our efforts to make digital accessibility equitable for everyone; let’s use this opportunity to build more belonging together.

With that in mind, The Center, in partnership with the Utah Broadband Office, established the Utah Digital Opportunity Network (UDON). This coalition of stakeholders from all across Utah is designed as a platform for community voices and solutions to the digital divide and as a resource directory for providers and individuals seeking access to existing services. We know this is only a part of the broader effort to expand broadband and digital access across Utah, but we also know that this type of coalition can be very effective if we as a community use it as a chance to collaborate and share proven strategies and resources.

How can people get involved?

Utah is currently preparing for a once-in-a-generation investment of hundreds of millions of federal dollars in broadband expansion and increased digital equity. You can help us better inform the State about the challenges, needs, and successes of this work. UDON membership in this coalition is open to anyone, and we would welcome your perspective, comments, and support.