Bridging the Digital Divide: Impact of Affordable Connectivity Program on Armenian Community in California
Aram Ter-Martirosyan
In the digital age, high-speed internet is not a luxury but a necessity. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), introduced under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has been pivotal in making internet access affordable for millions of Americans, including many in the Armenian community in California.
The ACP has significantly alleviated the financial burden of internet costs for 23 million households by offering $30-$75 monthly discounts, making high-speed internet virtually free for most eligible families. This initiative has been particularly beneficial for Armenian households in California, enabling many to enhance or acquire high-speed internet services.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is at a critical crossroads as its expiration looms just weeks away. Previously, the program had already ceased accepting new applications, heightening concerns about a growing digital divide. In response to this urgent situation, the Biden-Harris Administration has requested an additional $6 billion from Congress to extend the program and maintain vital support for underserved communities. This extension is crucial for continuing to bridge the connectivity gap for those who rely heavily on this aid.
Access to affordable, reliable internet is essential for education, healthcare, employment, and even maintaining social connections. The potential discontinuation of the ACP could disproportionately affect underserved communities, including rural areas, veterans, and older Americans, deepening economic and health disparities.
It’s a crucial moment for advocacy, as the continuation of the ACP could hinge on political support and legislative action. The Armenian community, alongside other impacted groups, is encouraged to voice their support for the program’s extension, emphasizing the substantial benefits it brings to their daily lives and economic well-being.
The Affordable Connectivity Program has made significant strides in closing the digital divide for many Armenian families in California, embodying a move toward greater digital equity. The future of this program is not just about internet access but about ensuring that all communities have the tools to thrive in a digitally driven world. The Armenian community, known for its resilience and advocacy, can play a pivotal role in ensuring the program’s extension and, by extension, safeguarding their access to essential digital resources.
