Forum addresses high speed Internet's impact on communities of color

U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee recently joined several telecom policy experts at the National Press Club for a panel discussion on the potential benefits of high speed Internet for communities of color.

The panelists hailed the possibilities for economic and social progress that would come from getting high speed Internet access to more minorities. As Rep. Jackson Lee said,

"Broadband technology and deployment is a critical issue for all Americans, and especially those in communities of color. Whether it's health care, education, or the impact on small businesses, broadband technology plays a growing role in the life of African Americans across the country."

Ralph Everett of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies added,

"Not only is broadband access a ticket to knowledge and economic opportunity, it can also make an enormous contribution to breaking down social barriers that have long kept many African Americans from realizing their full potential."

The panelists also took the opportunity to discuss ways the government might enact policies to spur the deployment of advanced high speed Internet in low-income and rural communities.

You can see video highlights of the panel here.

Joint Center and Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Highlight Broadband Technology Policies (Free Press)

The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies Briefing on Minorities and Broadband (NextGenWeb)