It's a civil right issue. That's how a panel of lawmakers, community organizers and business owners described the continuing challenge of eliminating the digital divide in the city.
They all gathered Tuesday night to discuss the issue with Harlem residents who came with questions about how to better prepare the next generation to enter the growing technology industry.
According to an analysis by the Center for Economic Opportunity, more than a third of all city households below the poverty line do not have internet access at home.
The panelists and residents all highlighted the critical need to increase digital literacy and broadband access, especially among communities of color.
"We really do need to focus on business development in technology in low-status communities, as well as good educational opportunities, and the idea that we have to create plans for our communities own inclusion within the tech economy is the most important piece," said Majora Carter, the CEO of Startup Box.
"What was clear, in addition to the fact that people are looking for digital skills training and workforce development, people really concerned about how much money is being spent in public education on upgrading our schools and making sure that all of our students, while they're learning, have a 21st Century education," said Andrew Rasiej, the founder of Civic Hall.
The forum was co-sponsored by the National Action Network and Spectrum, the parent company of NY1.