To tackle internet connectivity challenges on Chicago’s South and West Sides, ComEd has partnered with Quilt and Node to address the digital divide that became glaringly apparent during the pandemic.
As students struggled to complete schoolwork, some resorted to using Wi-Fi at fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s, highlighting the critical need for reliable internet access in underserved communities.
Community members voiced their concerns at a recent event held at the Woodlawn Resource Center.
The gathering featured insights from key figures like Dwayne Douglas, CEO of Quilt Corp. and Node Networks; Dave Perez, COO of ComEd and Felicia Dawson, VP of Strategic Partnerships at POAH Communities.
The collaboration aims to bring affordable high-speed internet to neighborhoods with unstable connectivity, putting residents at a significant disadvantage in an increasingly digital world.
Internet access is essential for education, employment, healthcare and overall participation in modern society. Yet, many households in these areas remain disconnected due to cost and, perhaps more importantly, a deep-seated mistrust of service providers.
Kyla Williams Tate emphasized the importance of infrastructure, adding, “Infrastructure is the foundation of a digital future, but infrastructure alone doesn’t connect communities—it’s the digital empowerment and engagement that truly drive economic impact.”
She underscored the need to educate residents on how to navigate the Internet safely and build trust in technology and their digital skills.
The event served as a potent reminder that collaboration is critical to creating pathways of empowerment. By bringing together ComEd, community organizations and local leaders, the initiative is not just about installing cables but building an ecosystem of trust and empowerment that elevates entire communities.
While diversity, equity, and inclusion are often discussed in the context of the workforce, this initiative illuminates the equally crucial issue of digital inclusion.
Chicago’s affordable broadband initiative sets the stage for long-term success by ensuring all residents have the tools to thrive in a connected world.
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