A Visit to Net Inclusion Conference
In furtherance of our efforts to establish and strengthen our Internet Cooperative, I represented our organization at the Net Inclusion conference held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Accompanied by my co-chair, Tanika Fears, we sought to engage with industry leaders and stakeholders in addressing the digital divide. However, it was notable that the conference lacked representation from the communities directly impacted by this issue. Instead, prominent corporations like Comcast and Verizon dominated the proceedings, focusing on navigation training rather than community-centered solutions.
Despite this observation, I found valuable insights at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) conference, where the emphasis was placed on empowering communities and tribes to develop their own internet infrastructure. Through practical training sessions, such as those facilitated by the ILSR, we gained invaluable knowledge on the intricacies of establishing and operating as an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Moreover, discussions centered on the importance of community involvement and collaboration with local government entities to advance our mission.
Additionally, I participated in a session hosted by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), a federally funded nonprofit organization. This session shed light on strategies to address discrepancies in internet service coverage, particularly in areas where ISPs falsely claim to provide service. Such misinformation not only inhibits fair competition but also hinders access to funding for alternative providers, perpetuating monopolistic practices.
Through these experiences, I acquired comprehensive insights into federal initiatives and funding mechanisms relevant to our organization's objectives. While challenges persist, particularly in advocating for community-centric approaches, I am confident that our commitment to inclusivity and collaboration will drive meaningful progress in bridging the digital divide.
