As reported by Speed Matters.org , the second NTIA broadband roundtable in Las Vegas, the discussion revolved around reaching vulnerable populations, selection criteria and definitions of “broadband”, “underserved” and “unserved”.
Broadband Census.com reports that panelists used Nevada as a case study for the digital divide, as Jeff Sandstrom of the Nevada Commission on Economic Development pointed out that the majority of rural Nevada doesn’t have access to broadband Internet. Finding ways to extend broadband would play a major role in Nevada’s “economic revolution,” Sandstrom said, particularly with the state’s focus on solar and geothermal power. Additionally, Nevada’s wildlife, agriculture, e-learning, telemedicine and business communities would benefit from better broadband, he said.
Then, representing the National Tribal Telecommunication Association, Karen Twenhafel of Telecom Consulting Service said that eight American tribes already have their own telephone companies and continue to pursue “self-provision of communication services.” Others among the Indian tribal lands – at least 29 percent, she said – still do not have access to broadband technology. “For 4.3 million Americans, this type of participation is simply not available.”
Valerie Fast Horse, council member and director of information technology for the Coeur d’Alene tribe, continued with panel’s concern for broadband for tribal communities. “The communications of this nation is only as strong as its weakest link.”
She said that tribal and rural areas had been left behind in communication development. What is needed now, she said, is infrastructure “with a long shelf-life” – referring to fiber-optic technology appropriate for delivering high speed internet into rural communities.
“True communication development cannot happen if we only focus on capitalizing infrastructure and equipment, while ignoring our human spirit,” she said.
Tags: Digital Divide, High Speed Internet, National Broadband, Rural Broadband