Digital literacy and access is imperative for folks to have, with more and more things being only accessible online. I have friends and neighbors who do not currently have access to a smart device or a computer. Getting anything done without that is nearly impossible. For my neighbor who has been stuck in an incarceration loop, has had such a difficult time getting a job, or even the proper paperwork in order to get a job. While there are libraries nearby, he is hesitant to utilize public services for fear of judgment. Access is such a multifaceted problem. I think the outline in Sieck, et.al. is a great start, but it is not everything. Literacy is incredibly important and having initiatives to educate and help folks navigate the complexities of the online world and software is huge. After all, a core responsibility of Social Workers is to educate. However, I do think access is the biggest obstacle facing folks around telehealth. While it is a great resource and can reach many people who may not be able to seek care in person, internet access is not as universal as one might think. For low income individuals, folks who are experiencing homelessness, and those who live in rural areas, access to the internet can feel impossible. While libraries are amazing resources, and now social workers are becoming available in that space, not everyone has access to them or the comfortability or ease to get there. Initiatives to get access to these folks is incredibly important and is a public health issue. Access is by far the most important element of this discussion.
I think it is a good framework to begin with. The biggest issue I see in it is funding. How can we garner funds to really get access to those in need. I am grateful that folks are thinking about these issues, as digital literacy is not always a given, even though that is hard to imagine these days. They have thought through all of the things that divide us in the digital areas, so for that reason I commend them for their efforts and work. I just do not see the way some of these ideas can be implemented without money and the government really being involved with implantation. With the current administration, I am not hopeful there is anything we can really do. Maybe one day, one of these billionaires will decide they are libertarian and need to use some of their wealth and expertise in the digital realm to really help people. Until then, I do not know what we can really do to get access to everyone that needs it.
I cannot stop thinking about how the internet was created with the goal of it becoming a public works utility, like electricity. I keep imagining a country where we are all supported and given access to the services we need. The digital divide has such huge consequences, leaving people without access to the information most of the world has. Everything is digital these days…self help, maps, communication. How does one function in the modern world without the internet? Speaking on the necessity of it all, the article did a great job discussing the need to access these resources and how hard it can be to not have it. In a world increasingly online, with phone communication becoming less and less common, we will continue to leave folks behind if we do not properly address it. The article did a thorough job addressing these issues, what folks are missing out on, and who is most impacted by the lack of service. When we discuss disadvantaged populations, we often think of low income city living, and often leave out more rural communities. Reminding folks of these rural and indigenous populations is incredibly important for all social issues, but especially this one. Even folks who can afford access to the internet face infrastructure issues. I am definitely on board with viewing the internet as a human rights issue, as we cannot really survive well without it.
When we view this issue through a community needs lens, creating a coalition or task force is the best way to bring about change. Community building is our greatest tool in our toolbelt for advocating for change. If the people who have a need are not devoted, how can our projects and initiatives have the means for long lasting work for change? This is likely not an issue that can be quickly solved and having devoted community members to carry this process is the best way to secure longevity. I worry a bit about where the funds would come from to fix this. With our current administration, access to education and resources is not only not a priority, but something they are actively dismantling. I do not know who there is with the means to fund a project of this scale. In our capitalistic society, something that is not profit based is often overlooked and incredibly underfunded. How do we solve a problem of this scale without the drive from those in power?
When looking at an at risk population, one that often feels like they must hide in order to stay safe, a telehealth initiative is wonderful. I know that this program saves lives and brings solace to many kids. Although I believe that to be true, the article does mention reaching kids in more rural areas where they may not have care nearby and are more likely to have family members who do not accept or understand them. We are once again faced with the internet access issues that fall on rural populations. How can kids reach care if they have no internet or do not have a solid connection? I have spent a lot of time in more rural and mountainous areas of our country, and internet and cell service is a struggle. If we are really looking to serve folks in those areas, the concerns of access and connectivity are critical for that work.
I love this!! You’re so right! Trying to get by without reliable internet these days feels nearly impossible. I love how you pointed out both city and rural struggles, and how some people don’t feel safe using public resources. It really makes you realize how much we take digital access for granted. What are some ways you think social workers or communities could help people get online while we wait for bigger systemic changes? I also wanted to say that I remember when no one cared about the internet 🙂