Digital Divide Race

737 Words2 Pages

When one mentions the digital divide others probably have no idea what the divide is. Racism is a major issue that has been prevalent in our society since the beginning of times. Racism separates individuals based on the color of their skin. Racism as defined by Miriam Webster is a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race. It is not difficult to see why racism is a topic that should be discussed in regards to the digital divide. The digital divide has continued to exist because of race and components related directly to the ills of racism.
The digital divide is the gap between people who have access to the internet and those who …show more content…

For starters racism itself is a system of oppression amongst a minority or people of color. These individuals are predestined to be lacking in ways of life compared to those who are considered their oppressors. The idea that racism has increased the gap of the digital divide has been documented on various platforms since the early 2000’s. One result of systematic racism is the presence of economic disadvantage. Technology is not a cheap way of life. The price for having internet access can range from $40-$145 a month according to Costhelper Electronics. The system of racism has resulted in an unfortunate racial wage gap. According to the Harvard review People of color make on average 10% less than those who are not of color. Factoring in the finances needed to obtain internet access and the racial wage gap it is obvious that some people of color will have to go without internet access during the course of their life. Finances are not the only factor that are keeping people pf color from obtaining internet access. Literacy is a serious issue in regards to the digital divide as a result of racism. Speaking specifically on African Americans from the very beginning of time literacy privileges were taken. Slaves were not allowed to read or learn how to read and that systematic way of thinking has passed down from early generations and modified for today’s time. Not being able to understand or accurately interpret the English language can be a subset of racism that increases the digital

Open Document