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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COOK COUNTY DECLARES OCTOBER 2, 2023, THROUGH OCTOBER 6, 2023, AS DIGITAL INCLUSION WEEK
WHEREAS, The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how the digital divide impacts Cook County residents, particularly our racially and ethnically diverse residents and communities; and
WHEREAS, Many Cook County communities lack access to reliable and affordable broadband due to the lack of infrastructure; discrimination in investment in delivering technology and technology-related services to specific areas or populations; or barriers derived from socioeconomic status, education, literacy, language, or disabilities; and
WHEREAS, Many Cook County residents do not have access to high-speed broadband connectivity, devices or, resources to meet their needs nor adequate digital literacy skills; and
WHEREAS, Broadband services play an important role in civic and cultural participation, lifelong learning and access to essential services for Cook County communities; and
WHEREAS, Digital skills are a gateway for career advancement and crucial for economic growth, intergenerational wealth-building and prosperity; and
WHEREAS, digital inclusion refers to activities to ensure that individuals and communities have access to reliable and affordable broadband internet service: internet-enabled devices; access to digital literacy training; quality technical support; and applications and online content that enables and encourages self-sufficiency, participation, and collaboration; and
WHEREAS, Digital equity ensures all Cook County residents and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy and economy; and
WHEREAS, Cook County is committed to closing the digital divide for its residents through digital inclusion efforts and by advancing digital equity goals;
WHEREAS, the observance of Digital Inclusion Week seeks to increase public knowledge of the importance of digital equity and prompt digital inclusion efforts across our County to expand broadband access, foster adoption, promote digital literacy; and increase digital safety and security awareness; and
WHEREAS, Digital Inclusion Week, spearheaded by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, is an annual week of awareness, recognition, and celebration. This year's theme is "Building Connected Communities," signaling a time of action and reflects the vision for Cook County communities,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Toni Preckwinkle, President, and Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners do hereby declare October 2, 2023, through October 6, 2023, Digital Inclusion Week, and the first business week in October as Digital Inclusion Week going forward.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of same be tendered to the State of Illinois.
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