Digital Equity & Inclusion

The Office of Digital Equity & Inclusion is committed to achieving equitable access to digital resources for all residents.  Placing “Digital Equity” resources in the communities we serve across all seven districts. Understanding this is an ongoing conversation that will continue to develop as technology evolves. Placing a demand on municipalities across the country to develop citywide strategies focused on integrating the latest technological advancements socialized as common day-to-day digital services and tools.  To bridge the digital divide will require a plan that will close the socioeconomic disadvantages directly impacting the digital divide.   Our goal in the City of Detroit is to provide residents with digital equity tools, increasing access and long-term digital equality.  By placing the resources in community-based organizations ensuring access to affordable high-speed internet, smart devices (laptops/tablets), digital literacy skills-building courses, and IT workforce training (apprenticeship, internship, and job placement) working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.

City of Detroit Digital Equity Current State

Digital inequalities have been an issue for decades in the City of Detroit.  COVID-19 amplified the inequalities as well as the divide it placed amongst thousands of cities locally and nationally.   The City of Detroit was not unlike other municipalities gaining a better understanding for the need to provide our residents with equitable access to affordable digital equity tools and resources. Rebuilding Detroit’s economy post-COVID-19 will require more attention focused on increasing racial equitable access for black and brown residents.  The Office of Digital Equity & Inclusion has been tasked with creating the blueprint and leading this initiative.  Working collaboratively with “Digital Equity Partners” in the community.  From grassroots organizations, faith-based, community centers, and nonprofits to corporations.  With a primary goal to deliver digital equity resources directly to the community we serve specifically residents at or below poverty, including but not limited to seniors, veterans, ESL communities, K12 students and parents, returning citizens and 25- to 45-year-olds.  

What is The Digital Divide?

Digital Divide: This is the gap between those who have affordable access, skills, and support to effectively engage online and those who do not. As technology constantly evolves, the digital divide prevents equitable participation and opportunity in all parts of life, disproportionately affecting people of color, Indigenous peoples, households with low incomes, people with disabilities, people in rural areas, and older adults.

The Office of Digital Equity & Inclusion has identified the digital gaps we can provide solutions that will address over 80% of the obstacles clearly defined in the “digital divide”.  Our office work is guided by the three DEI pilars.