Politics & Government

City Of Austin Raising Awareness About The Importance Of Internet Access For All

With the pandemic forcing millions of people to work remotely, affordable and reliable internet access is becoming more important than ever.

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Press Release Desk, News Partner

Press release from the City of Austin:

October 5, 2021

National Digital Inclusion Week, October 4-8

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Digital Inclusion Week (DIW) is raising awareness about digital inequities and the City of Austin is proud to join the nationwide effort to close those gaps. This year, DIW occurs from October 4-8. The City of Austin and the Digital Empowerment Community of Austin (DECA) are offering a whole host of virtual events for residents to learn more about Digital Inclusion.

With the pandemic forcing millions of people to work remotely, affordable and reliable internet access is becoming more important than ever. For those who are not connected, this is an ever-increasing disadvantage.

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“Imagine a single mom of three kids without internet during normal times. Now imagine the same family during the pandemic when all the schools are locked down and she has to work remotely,” said Telecommunications & Regulatory Affairs Officer, Rondella Hawkins. “Access to online information is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for so many.”

Throughout the week, the City of Austin is offering events about topics such as Digital Service Delivery During COVID-19, Online and Information Security, Using the Internet Regularly and Effectively, and more from local partners.

Digital Inclusion Week Events Calendar Includes:

  • Apps for Financial Success
  • Digital Parents Tech Workshop: Internet Security
  • Get More Out of Google
  • Get to Know Your Smartphone

Austin Digital Inclusion Week is also holding its second poster contest for school-aged youth to be used in all Digital Inclusion marketing throughout the year! The theme is: “Digital Empowerment means______.” Applicants must be 10-18 years of age and reside in Austin. Artwork may be submitted online, by mail, or in-person by appointment by October 10. Those interested can read the full guidelines and complete the entry form online.

This press release was produced by the City of Austin. The views expressed here are the author’s own.

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