Digital Equity Co-Creation Toolkit

Digital equity is a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy. Digital equity is necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services.- National Digital Inclusion Alliance

Washington State faces digital inequities including insufficient broadband internet access, barriers to accessing devices appropriate to an individual's needs and, systemic barriers that affect people historically and intentionally unheard and/or misrepresented.  These inequities affect at least 70% of Washington's population, a situation affecting quality of life for millions of Washington residents who rely on digital access for connecting with community, learning, working, and meeting personal goals.  These inequities take many forms, and therefore will require a diversity of solutions.  Best practice and current studies show programs and services designed in partnership with community voices are more effective.

Working towards digital equity means funding programs that provide:

Over the next 5 years, Washington, along with all other states will be receiving an unprecedented amount of funding from the federal government to support internet for all.  These funds are to be used both for expanding the physical infrastructure that provide internet access across the state, but also to develop and strengthen existing programs that are welcoming, accessible, and culturally appropriate to the community being served.

Washington State Library requested and was granted $250,000 for the 24-25 biennium for the purpose of assessing the digital skills and digital equity experiences of people who live within Washington State.  In 2023, the State Library engaged in a small-scale, qualitative study with vendor Equity in Education Coalition.  This study, including the report on findings, all preparatory research and advice, and anonymized raw data are available here in this comprehensive guide.

This funding request came with further instructions from the legislature:

(21) $125,000 of the general fund—state appropriation for fiscal year 2024 and $125,000 of the general fund—state appropriation for fiscal year 2025 are provided solely for the office to continue developing a statewide digital assessment tool and protocol for the tool's usage. The office must use the tool and protocol it developed to reach additional underserved audiences and make improvements to the tool and protocol. The office must develop and publish recommendations to improve  implementation of the tool by June 30,2025. 

   Questions, concerns, or just want to talk further?

  Please reach out, I work for you!

  Joyce.Abbott@sos.wa.gov