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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION TO PROMOTE DIGITAL EQUITY THROUGH DONATION OF COOK COUNTY SALVAGE IT EQUIPMENT TO PCs FOR PEOPLE
WHEREAS, access to digital devices and the internet has become an essential component for full participation in society; and
WHEREAS, in today's society, high-speed and affordable internet and digital devices are essential infrastructure for job creation, education, health care, the enhancement of safe communities, civic engagement, and government responsiveness; and
WHEREAS, lack of digital infrastructure and devices is most acute among low-income communities, communities of color, and other underserved populations in Cook County; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has shifted more work and education to virtual settings, heightening the need for available, reliable, and affordable internet access for all residents; and
WHEREAS, "digital equity" refers to the condition in which all Cook County residents and communities have the information technology infrastructure and devices to fully participate in our society, and requires universal and affordable access to high-speed internet, digital devices, and technological literacy; and
WHEREAS, digital equity, including universal access to digital devices and high-speed internet for all Cook County residents, is a main concern for Cook County Government as our society becomes increasingly dependent upon technology and internet access for employment, education, health care, and other opportunities; and
WHEREAS, Cook County established the President's Council on Digital Equity (CODE) in 2020, to advance digital equity in the areas of digital infrastructure, digital proficiency, and digital accessibility; and
WHEREAS, the current cost of digital devices such as desktop and laptop computers is prohibitively expensive for many suburban Cook County residents and is preventing them from full participation in the modern world; and
WHEREAS, various Cook County agencies, including Offices ...
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