Sol de Medianoche, a monthly publication covering Anchorage’s Latino community, is partnering with the Rasmuson Foundation to help complete the ConnectAK project, whose goal is to achieve digital equity in the state.
Alaska, the second-youngest and largest state in the U.S., faces a significant digital divide. According to Sol de Medianoche, the numbers are stark:
- One in five Alaska residents does not use the internet
- Around 30% do not use a computer or tablet
- More than 75% of Alaskans cannot buy broadband at an affordable price
- Alaska ranks 42 in the nation in terms of internet coverage, speed, and availability
As a result, many Alaskans are left without critical access to information and communication tools to participate in their communities.
Other ConnectAK community partners include AARP Alaska, Alaska Federation of Natives, Alaska Literacy Program, Alaska Municipal League, Alaska Public Interest Research Group, Alaska Native Movement, Alaska Warrior Partnership, Polynesian Association of Alaska, RuralCAP, and Special Olympics Alaska.
In print editions, Sol de Medianoche is publishing information on digital equity, digital literacy, and available resources to promote increased access.
A crucial part of ConnectAK is understanding the needs of communities to create a comprehensive action plan. To help, members of Alaska’s Latino community can fill out Sol de Medianoche’s survey: CLICK HERE.
