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Room 2 and 7: Participation of Unconnected Populations

Problem Definition: The people most affected by digital divides are not always/often engaged in the work to solve digital inequity.

Why is this a problem:

  • There isn't a clear invite or way for individuals to plugin. There isn't a space to see/receive the invitation. 
  • Barriers of childcare, transportation, time off work, etc. make it difficult for community members to participate in formal conversations.
  • Mistrust from previous community engagement efforts, specifically projects that have not had impact, prevents people from joining in new efforts. 
  • Issues with power dynamics result in some people taking up space and prevents others from sharing their lived experiences and ideas.
  • Inequitable access to technology means that digital solutions like Zoom meetings exacerbate the underrepresentation of those most affected.
  • There is a lack of trust in government and others.

Flip the Context:

  • Meetings are located where it is convenient to the individuals most impacted by digital inequities.
  • All community members have the ability to participate equitably, through multiple channels.
  • There is a transparent and equitable process for individuals to contribute
  • Everyone participating feels a sense of trust and ownership in the process, that their opinions and ideas are validated and their voices are being heard. 
  • We honor and pay for the lived expertise of the community members.
  • The feedback of participants shapes the digital equity programs being implemented and these programs have a positive impact on communities.
  • There are accountability measures built into digital equity planning and program development.

Timed Prompts:

  • How might we create space for all voices?
  • How might we develop trust?
  • How might we honor/ pay for lived expertise? 
  • How might we assess the current institutional and historical barriers to participation?
  • How might we partner with community-based organizations that are already trusted?
  • How might we reimagine how we engage community members to make them feel both valued and that their time is well-spent (i.e. they see results from their engagement)?
  • How might we balance community members' voices/ desires with operating constraints while maintaining community member engagement/trust?
  • How might we ensure accountability?
Last Updated: August 23, 2021