At the end of February, a resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives designating March 21st as National Digital Literacy Day. Sponsored by Representatives Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Anna Eshoo (D-CA), Doris Matsui (D-CA) and six others, the resolution (H. Res. 81) is intended ”to promote digital literacy, broadband access, and broadband adoption in the United States.”
The list of justifications for the resolution focuses on the need to close the digital divide by expanding broadband access and computer skills to citizens who lack them. It cites estimates that 100 million Americans have not adopted broadband Internet in the home, and one in five adults have no digital literacy skills. It also emphasizes the importance of digital literacy and broadband access for finding a job and getting an education.
March 21st is also the launch date of a three year national Ad Council campaign “EveryoneOn”, which similarly promotes the importance of closing the digital divide.
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