We would like to applaud President Obama on his inspiring State of the Union Address on January 27th. President Obama expressed optimism for the future of jobs, the health of our economy, and improvements in our educational system.  Looking to bring down the nation’s level of unemployment, President Obama called for a jobs bill that includes infrastructure projects and other jobs programs.  We at The Alliance would like to add to this imperative call and suggest that the build out of broadband internet infrastructure become an indispensible component of any jobs bill that comes out of Congress.  After all, broadband internet is the great equalizer, enabling users to access the information and training necessary to find and prepare for working in what is an increasingly dynamic and ever-changing workforce.  By making broadband available to minority and underserved communities, the new jobs bill President Obama is proposing will tap a new and diverse talent pool of motivated workers, creating plentiful new jobs.     

Broadband internet is extremely useful in helping our nation achieve a broad range of public policy goals.  From improving access to quality and affordable healthcare to providing educational and job opportunities, broadband internet has the power to change lives. ADE puts its full faith behind President Obama and his agenda to increase the employment rate and strengthen our economy.  In our role as a bridge between policymakers and consumers when it comes to digital issues, it is our mission to help the public and policy makers understand how legislative and regulatory policies regarding new technologies can impact and empower our communities’ daily lives.  Job creation is central to supporting growth and improving daily lives in underserved communities, and broadband internet access for these communities is vital; therefore, it is our sincere hope that Congress heeds President Obama’s call for a jobs bill, one that includes broadband infrastructure and jobs programs that are made available to minority and underserved communities. Click below to read ADE’s position paper entitled “Empowered or Disenfranchised During the Digital Age? An Epic Moment for Communities of Color,” detailing more information about the empowering effect of broadband on improving quality of life in America.

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