Digital Equity Series - Why Should You care about Digital Equity

Brian Sankarsingh discusses why Digital Equity is important to all Canadians

In the 21st century, access to the internet has become increasingly essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic participation. However, not all Canadians enjoy equal access to the digital world. To determine whether it is worthwhile for Canadians to demand that all levels of government pursue digital equity we need to explore the pros and cons of digital equity in Canada. Digital equity refers to the fair and inclusive distribution of digital resources, skills, and opportunities among all citizens. Digital equity does not require that everyone have devices or the ability to use the internet. It requires that every person who wants to use the internet faces little or no barriers when trying to do so. These barriers may include no access to devices, no access to the internet, low bandwidth, no ability to charge or recharge devices, no one to help them understand how to use the devices or the internet and no one to help allay any fears they may have when using the internet.  

Here are some of the reasons why there should be a greater focus on digital equity in our communities:  

Inclusive Education: One of the most significant advantages of digital equity is its potential to create a more inclusive education system. With equitable access to the internet and digital devices, students from all backgrounds can access educational resources, collaborate with peers, and engage in remote learning. This is particularly important in rural and remote areas where physical schools may be scarce.  

Enhanced Employability: The pandemic caused a lot of employers to rethink their work-from-home strategy and as the world moves forward many employers are offering this as an incentive. Digital skills are now increasingly crucial in the job market. Those with digital literacy are more likely to secure employment and thrive in the modern workforce. Promoting digital equity can help bridge the digital skills gap and empower individuals to compete in the digital job market.  

Improved Healthcare Access: Telehealth services have gained prominence, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital equity ensures that all Canadians, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status, can access healthcare consultations, receive medical advice, and access health-related information online. We know that people who are actively involved in their healthcare have better health outcomes and digital equity can contribute to this. Being able to use an internet connected device such as a blood pressure cuff or diabetes testing device ensures that the provider is aware of any changes in their patient’s health.  

Civic Participation: A digitally connected population can engage more actively in civic life. Access to government services, voting information, and participation in online community discussions can be enhanced through digital equity. This can strengthen democracy and citizen engagement. Recently the Government of Ontario also announced plans to move toward a digital ID which, of course, requires not just access but the ability to be safe while navigating the web. Another change that may help improve civic engagement is online voting. Although the number of eligible voters who used the online voting option was not as predicted it is hoped that as more people become confident in online voting numbers will improve.  

Economic Growth: Ensuring digital equity can spur economic growth. Increased internet access can lead to the development of digital businesses and start-ups, create jobs, and stimulate economic activity in underserved areas. 

Social Inclusion: Digital equity fosters social inclusion by reducing the digital divide that often marginalizes vulnerable populations. Everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, can participate in online social networks and stay connected with friends and family. 

Certainly, there are some drawbacks to pursuing a digitally equitable society. Among them are: 

Costs: Expanding digital infrastructure and providing subsidized access to underserved communities can be costly for both federal and provincial governments. This could strain budgets, especially during economic downturns. 

Infrastructure Challenges: Some remote and rural areas in Canada face significant geographical challenges in providing reliable high-speed internet access. Overcoming these infrastructure obstacles can be complex, expensive and, time-consuming. 

Digital Literacy Gaps: Access alone does not guarantee digital equity. There is a need for comprehensive digital literacy programs to ensure that people can effectively use digital tools and resources. Bridging this gap may require additional resources and efforts. 

Privacy and Security Concerns: With increased digital access comes a greater risk of privacy breaches and cybersecurity threats. Governments must invest in robust cybersecurity measures to protect citizens' data and digital experiences. 

Potential for Monopolies: In some cases, the push for digital equity could inadvertently lead to the consolidation of telecommunications companies, reducing competition and potentially increasing costs for consumers. 

Resistance to Change: Some individuals may resist embracing digital technologies due to factors like generational gaps or cultural barriers. Encouraging adoption and reducing resistance may require significant educational efforts. 

We cannot deny that despite these complications and constraints pursuing a digitally equitable society is appropriate as it is necessary. For the past decade, technology has been driving human advancement. Now we are at the point where, as more services, resources and interactions move online it becomes unavoidable to not be online. Thus, digital equity aligns with the principles of social justice, ensuring that all Canadians have an equal opportunity to access the benefits of the digital age. Unquestionably, Canada's economic competitiveness depends on a skilled workforce and digital innovation and digital equity is an investment in our long-term economic prosperity. This will ensure that we keep pace with other nations in terms of digital infrastructure and skills. Digital equity in Canada is a critical issue. We must look past the complexity because we ignore the communities and people who face barriers to digital access to our detriment. While there are challenges, such as costs and infrastructure limitations, the benefits of digital equity, including inclusive education, improved employability, enhanced healthcare access, and stronger civic participation, make a compelling case for its integration into government and telecommunications strategy.  By addressing the digital divide, Canada can build a more inclusive, innovative, and competitive society that will thrive in the digital age.  

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Bio: Brian Sankarsingh is a Trinidadian-born Canadian immigrant who moved to Canada in the 1980s. He describes himself as an accidental poet, with a passion for advocacy and a penchant for prose, an unapologetic style, he offers his poetry as social and political commentary.