Digital Equity
Why Digital Equity?
When the world went virtual, we quickly realized that many in our community, including ourselves, were left behind, struggling to connect and engage. This stark digital divide wasn't just an inconvenience; it was an urgent equity issue. At the Healing and Justice Center (HJC), we believe digital equity is a cornerstone of healing and justice. Access to affordable, high-quality internet is not a luxury; it is essential for education, healthcare, employment, maintaining meaningful community ties and overall well-being. Without it, communities—especially those historically marginalized—are left vulnerable and unable to fully participate in today’s digital world and as technology continues to improve and expand, these same communities will be left further and further behind, marginalized, oppressed, segregated and traumatized.
Our commitment to digital equity is rooted in the understanding that access to the digital world is vital for well-being. By ensuring everyone, regardless of background, has the tools and connectivity they need, we break down barriers, fostering opportunities for collective healing, growth, and empowerment.
*For accessibility, our services and programs are offered in person, online, and/or hybrid models as well as both in English and Spanish to serve our community focus areas.
Healing Through Connection
Digital Equity isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating the conditions for communities to thrive. As more services and resources transition online, the digital divide deepens systemic inequalities. At HJC, we know that true justice requires ensuring all people have the digital infrastructure, literacy, and resources necessary to succeed.
A connected community is a resilient one. When individuals can access the services they need and engage with one another, they are better equipped to heal from trauma, build stronger support networks, and pursue justice across all areas of life.
BREAKING THE DIGITAL MONOPOLY
In Los Angeles County, the dominance of Charter/Spectrum, which controls over 80% of internet services, highlights a modern struggle for digital independence. This monopoly restricts where and how services are provided and inflates costs, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable communities. Just as a single store with undue power can set prices for essentials, this lack of competition places undue burdens on those least able to bear them.
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Moreover, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) like Charter, Frontier, and AT&T are not regulated like water, gas, and electricity. This lack of regulation allows them to decide which services to provide, how much to charge, and where to invest in infrastructure, often prioritizing profit over the needs of those who genuinely require these services.
ADVOCATING FOR INTERNET AS A HUMAN RIGHT
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HJC understands that being connected digitally is essential for education, employment, health, family, and to meet other basic needs. We seek to ensure everyone has affordable access to quality internet (Broadband). We believe access to the internet is a human right, and should be regulated as a utility and not a luxury.
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Actively participating in local County, State and Federal level efforts, we strive to make sure internet companies are not discriminating in terms of price, service quality and access.
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Additionally, we advocate for low income communities to have access to devices and digital literacy necessary to successfully navigate the internet.
Empowering Every Household for A Thriving Future
Without access to affordable, quality internet, many are left behind in education, job opportunities, and access to critical services. Imagine a world where every household has high-speed internet: children can learn without barriers, mothers can access health resources, and families can thrive in a digitally equitable society.
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