Indigenous communities must have internet access on their terms – Toronto Star

Jan. 18, 2021

With the Universal Broadband Fund, the federal government has committed to addressing the connectivity gap that is far too real for many people. Over the past nine months, COVID-19 has demonstrated how important the internet is during a crisis.

Broadband has become as essential as access to electricity. Minister Monsef was correct when she said: “High-speed internet is more than just a convenience.”

Certainly, an investment of $1.75 billion to help lower the hurdles that have left many communities on the wrong side of the digital divide is needed and welcome. But officials need to take care not to disenfranchise the very communities they intend to help.

Read More: https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/2021/01/18/indigenous-communities-must-have-internet-access-on-their-terms.html