Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Broadband Internet Access: Equal Access And Opportunity For All, Erin Kotten, Emily Louks, Matt Frank, Marissa Mammenga

Master of Social Work Student Policy Advocacy Briefs

The internet has become the primary way households gain access to daily services, including education, healthcare, employment resources, and transportation. In 2016, the United Nations General Assembly designated internet access a basic human right. Millions of Americans are living in the digital divide. Low-wage workers, people of color, children, older adults, individuals with disabilities, the less educated, rural residents, and limited English-speaking households are among those most affected by lack of broadband access in Minnesota. Those without access experience social and economic inequalities. The COVID-19 pandemic heightened the need for broadband access. Minnesota must end the digital divide that limits …