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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 in...
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