Alliance for Digital Equality's Statement on President Obama's Announcement of Funding to Expand Broadband in Poor, Rural Areas

ATLANTA, July 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Julius H. Hollis, Chairman of the Alliance for Digital Equality (ADE), issued the following statement regarding President Obama's announcement today of new government investments in 66 projects to expand broadband connections in rural and poor areas across the country.  According to the White House, the $795 million in grants and loans funded by the 2009 economic stimulus act will create 5,000 jobs and generate $200 million in associated private investment.

"Today's announcement that President Obama and his Administration are setting the wheels in motion to get money, jobs and the invaluable tool of high speed Internet access to communities and people who truly need it, is fantastic news.  For those Americans fortunate enough to reap the benefits of this initiative, countless benefits and unparalleled opportunity are coming - and this is very exciting.    

"This is a phenomenal first step toward achieving the goal of universal broadband, and will certainly make our country better and stronger in the process.  But there is an overwhelming need that remains and that must also be addressed.  Unfortunately, the government cannot fulfill this need by itself.  It will take a new, bold strategy that creates a regulatory framework that incites private sector investment and ensures affordable broadband prices.  I hope that the Administration will weigh in and discourage any policies that would hinder affordable access to broadband - specifically plans to reclassify broadband providers as common carrier services - for broadband infrastructure is the gateway to success for future generations.

"I applaud President Obama for his effort to help those who need it most.  Expanding broadband to poor and rural areas will give these communities opportunities that they have never had, finally allowing them to compete on a level playing field, and to better compete in the global economy.  This is a proud day."

About The Alliance for Digital Equality

The Alliance for Digital Equality (ADE), headquartered in Atlanta, GA is a non-profit consumer advocacy organization that serves to facilitate and ensure equal access to technology in underserved and un-served communities.  The Alliance also serves as a bridge between policymakers and minority individuals in order to help the public understand how legislative and regulatory policies regarding new technologies can impact and empower their daily lives.  For more information on The Alliance for Digital Equality, please visit www.alliancefordigitalequality.org.

SOURCE Alliance for Digital Equality

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