Partner Sign-on Letter - We urge the FCC to act

Federal Communications Commission

The Federal Communications Commission has the ability to hold internet service providers accountable to provide the internet speeds they offer, track internet connectivity to identify areas with the most need for the internet, and allocate funds to close the divide through infrastructure and regulations on internet speeds.

Specifically, the undersigned organization urge the FCC to:

  1. consider creating and funding an Urban Digital Opportunity Fund to meet the needs of residents living in urban areas.
  2. increase the minimum internet service speed to 100 mpbs/25 mpbs for any grants given to Internet Service Providers from the FCC.

Communities Closing the Urban Digital Divide is a Coalition of teachers, students and community members in cities like Baltimore, Chicago, Miami, and DC. Check us out at www.urbandigitaldivide.org.

To: Federal Communications Commission
From: [Your Name]

Interim Chair Rosenworcel and esteemed commissioners,

We, the undersigned organizations, are composed of parents, educators, students and community leaders who are deeply concerned about the quality of internet access for our students, families and staff. These concerns existed for many of us long before the COVID-19 pandemic, and this last year of virtual/hybrid learning has only heightened the national attention to this problem.

We understand that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is having a hearing this summer on broadband connectivity. We present this sign-on letter as testimony and urge you to action.

The Federal Communications Commission has the ability to hold internet service providers accountable to provide the internet speeds they offer, track internet connectivity to identify areas with the most need for the internet, and allocate funds to close the divide through infrastructure and regulations on internet speeds.

Specifically, we urge you to consider creating and funding an Urban Digital Opportunity Fund to meet the needs of residents living in urban areas. We also ask you to increase the minimum internet service speed to 100 mpbs/25 mpbs for any grants given to Internet Service Providers from the FCC.

Quality and reliable internet has been and will continue to be essential as our schools endeavor to provide a world-class education. Please consider the role the FCC can play as you deliberate this summer.

Regards,

[undersigned]