Join the Revolution!
By: Francine E. Jefferson, Ph.D.
Telecommunications Policy Analyst
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
U.S. Department of Commerce
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Example #1:
How many of us know that after February 17, 2009 all high-power television stations will cease broadcasting in analog and begin all television broadcasting in digital? Unless consumers have a digital television, subscribe to pay-for-service television, or already have purchased a digital-to-analog converter there will be no picture on the TV. Congress has mandated that analog air waves (spectrum) will now be turned over for public safety uses; some of the spectrum will be auctioned for wireless and other broadband applications. An estimated 13 million households (economically disadvantaged, elderly and minorities), will not be prepared for the television “digital transition.”
Example #2:
On September 4, 2007 it was announced that, with bipartisan support, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 694, the Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunities Act of 2007 to assist in acquiring, and augmenting their use of, digital and wireless networking technologies to improve the quality and delivery of educational services. The purpose of the act is to foster the use of digital and wireless networking technology to improve research and education, including scientific, mathematics, engineering and technology instruction. Though approved by both the House and the Senate, this legislation never made it to Conference.
The digital divide separates the information rich and the information poor. It is the gap between those who have real access to information and communications technology and who are able to use it effectively, and those who don’t have such access. We must be ever vigilant to see that our policy makers and politicians know and understand the changing landscape of our society to ensure that our citizens and communities are not left on the fringes of this Digital Revolution.
Digital technology—information and communications technology—is driving both an improved quality of life for Americans, but also economic growth. DigitalSistas, let’s arm ourselves to see to it that we, our families and communities reap the benefits of digital prosperity.
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