WASHINGTON, D.C. (March, 16, 2016) — OCA – Asian Pacific American Advocates applauds the President’s ConnectALL Initiative that seeks to expand broadband access to low-income Americans.
President Barack Obama recently introduced his ConnectALL Initiative as a follow-up to his successful ConnectED and ConnectHome programs that have provided broadband access to more than 20 million more children. The ConnectALL Initiative seeks to take the next logical step forward and help ensure that all low-income Americans have access to broadband internet.
“President Obama is the first President to fully embrace and engage with the technological revolution in America,” said Leslie Moe-Kaiser, OCA National President. “The internet is now ingrained in the fabric of American society at every level; from education, to business, and even government. The web can now be used to learn at home, find a job, or even help combat elder isolation. However, while these technological advancements have no doubt made many tasks much easier and more efficient, it also threatens to leave many low-income Americans behind. Though the average income of Asian American and Pacific Islanders is high, many segments of our community still face extreme of poverty, and we must strive to protect their upward mobility by expanding broadband access.”
“The President’s program is a step in the right direction towards making broadband internet a necessity and not a luxury,” continued Moe-Kaiser. “We have been strong supporters of expanding the vital Lifeline program to include discount broadband access, but also look forward to positive results from the President’s programs to encourage digital literacy, increase access to affordable devices, and work with private and philanthropic groups to support digital inclusion. These positive steps will help make sure that all Americans, including Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, are prepared to take advantage of the technological revolution and not be left out.”
OCA – Asian Pacific American Advocates is a national organization of community advocates dedicated to improving the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian Pacific Americans (APAs).
