Digital inequities have been an issue in the District for decades. COVID-19 has amplified the digital divide, as tens of thousands of DC residents don’t have access to a device, home internet, and skills training. Investing in digital inclusion – access to devices, internet, and tech training – will help DC rebuild its economy post COVID-19 and increase racial equity, as Black and Brown residents get connected and gain the opportunity to build skills and careers in the new economy.

This is why, CNHED is partnering with Byte Back to host the virtual event: Digital Inclusion Now: A Pathway to Economic Mobility for Black & Brown DC Residents on Wednesday, October 7th. Not only does this event fall during CNHED’s annual Community Development Week, it also falls within Digital Inclusion Week.

Register free here >>

Wednesday, October 7
9:30AM – 12:00PM

Digital Inclusion NOW Schedule of Events

9:30 – 9:45 AM – Welcome & Opening Remarks

Elizabeth Lindsey, Byte Back CEO

9:45 – 10:00 AM – Remarks on ‘Tech Together’

Lindsey Parker, DC Chief Technology Officer 

10:00 – 11:00AM – Closing the Gap: Digital Access & Skills for Work in DC

The digital skills gap in Washington, DC is impacting how we work and who gets to work. The region is facing a tech talent shortage. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of residents still don’t have a home computer, internet access, or the skills to use a computer for key work tasks. Only 5% of white households in DC do not have access to high speed internet, while 27% of Black, Latinx, and Asian households don’t have access. With the largest gap in digital access by income in the country, it’s essential that Washington, DC works toward closing its digital divide.

Understand DC’s digital divide with these experts and walk away with solutions to increase access to tech skills and work while addressing systemic racism.

11:00AM – 12:00PM – Investing in Digital Inclusion for DC’s Future: How Black & Brown DC Residents, Businesses & the Economy Will Benefit

As the pandemic has eroded employment gains and the economy grows more dependent on a digitally trained workforce, who is being left behind? Half of Black workers and more than half of Latinx workers in the US need digital skills. The consequences of this digital divide in DC are huge, amplifying racist inequities while also further damaging the economy. Investing in digital inclusion – access to devices, internet, and tech training – will help DC’s economic viability post COVID and help Black and Brown residents build the wealth they deserve.