Agent Rebecca Jinnette and CED Billy Barrow using Bertie Cooperative Extension’s mobile computer classroom to help deliver a digital skills class at Pride of Bertie’s Young Environmentalists Academy Camp during July 2024

In today’s digital age, achieving digital equity is vital for full participation in society, democracy, and the economy. This pressing issue has gained attention at all levels of government, prompting the question for all of us civilians: What is digital equity? Simply put, digital equity is the goal to remove barriers such as availability, affordability, and skill gaps so all individuals and communities can access and engage with the digital landscape.

North Carolinians are known for their resilience and deep sense of community—qualities that have allowed the state to overlook the urgency of digital equity for far too long. We were managing just fine until the COVID-19 pandemic starkly exposed these disparities. During lockdowns, many students resorted to parking at fast-food establishments to access Wi-Fi for their schooling, while countless individuals without technology faced challenges in remote work and healthcare access. The pandemic highlighted that digital equity is not merely a convenience; it is a fundamental human right.

In North Carolina, over 1.1 million households lack adequate high-speed internet access. Improvements have been made in recent years but availability remains a significant barrier for many here in Bertie. The county’s rivers, forests, and low population density contribute to its charm but they also hinder the timely installation of broadband infrastructure. Affordability compounds the issue, especially following the expiration of the Affordable Connectivity Program, which left more than 900,000 households in North Carolina struggling to maintain internet access. Additionally, many residents lack the digital skills necessary to effectively utilize available technology. 

Bridging this digital divide is no small task. It underscores the gap between those who have access to devices, connectivity, and skills, and those who do not. Certain populations are disproportionately affected, including older adults, people of color, Indigenous communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, low-income households, individuals with disabilities, rural residents, and those with limited English language proficiency. Targeted digital inclusion efforts are crucial to address these disparities.

Governor Roy Cooper recognized the urgency of this issue and prioritized closing the digital divide to ensure all North Carolinians can participate in the digital economy. In 2021, he established our nation’s first Office of Digital Equity and Literacy. The state later developed a Digital Equity Plan, which was accepted by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration in March 2024. This plan outlines measurable objectives and implementation strategies that include:

• Access to High-Speed Internet: The plan advocates for expanding public Wi-Fi and ensuring affordable, reliable internet service is accessible to all, particularly in underserved areas.
• Accessibility of Online Resources: It aims to create user-friendly online content that meets the needs of diverse populations, addressing language barriers and usability.
• Digital Literacy: Training programs are essential for equipping residents with the digital skills needed to navigate the online world.
• Cybersecurity and Privacy: Growing concerns about online security necessitate broader education on protecting personal information, particularly for populations that may lack awareness.
• Access to Devices and Technical Support: Many face challenges due to outdated technology and the high costs of support services. Public spaces often limit device usage, highlighting the need for local refurbishers to provide affordable, quality devices.

As North Carolina moves forward, it is imperative to prioritize these initiatives. The Mid-East Commission is currently working with local leaders to draft its own Digital Inclusion Plan, and Bertie County probably won’t be far behind them in developing its own plan addressing our specific needs and goals. Ensuring that every resident can thrive in a digital world is not just a goal; it is essential for building a more equitable society.

To learn more about the state’s efforts, visit ncbroadband.gov/Digital-Equity-Plan.

If you’d like to learn more about Extension’s NC Digital Futures Program, find out where you can go in Bertie County to access public digital devices and internet connectivity, or sign up for free digital literacy training please don’t hesitate to contact Digital Skills Agent Rebecca Jinnette at 252-794-6170 or rjinnet@ncsu.edu. 

Bertie residents at the Council on Aging using Bertie Cooperative Extension’s mobile computer classroom to fortify their digital skill sets with Agent Rebecca Jinnette in May 2024.