Celebrating Native American Heritage Month: Empowering Native Communities Through Digital Equity

November 20, 2024

By: Margaret Gutierrez, Division Chief for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity and Nation-to-Nation Coordination Division, and Angela Thi Bennett, Digital Equity Director, Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth, NTIA

This November, as we observe Native American Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich history, culture, and enduring contributions of Native communities across the United States. We reflect on the unique challenges facing Native communities and reaffirm our commitment to advancing opportunities for economic prosperity, education, and inclusion for all. Read on to learn how NTIA and Native communities are working together - and see the impacts of digital equity in these communities.

The Digital Divide in Tribal and Native Hawaiian Communities

The "digital divide" describes the gap between those who have easy access to the Internet and technology and those who do not. In rural and remote Tribal lands and in Native Hawaiian communities, Internet connectivity remains a persistent issue. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)'s 2024 Section 706 Report on broadband deployment, approximately 23% of people living on Tribal lands lack access to high-speed Internet service (100/20 Mbps including fixed wireless access), compared to approximately 7% of the overall U.S. population. This digital divide exacerbates existing inequities, hindering educational progress, healthcare access, and economic development.

NTIA understands that expanding digital equity advances Native nations and Indigenous communities' access to critical services such as education, healthcare, and economic development. This year, NTIA is highlighting a key funding opportunity through our Digital Equity Act Programs, which provide vital support to Native entities working to bridge the digital divide.

The $45.3 million available through the Native Entities Capacity and Planning Grant Program is designed to address these challenges by empowering Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations to take the lead in developing solutions that work for their communities. Additionally, portions of the funding from the nearly $1 billion in funding available this year from the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program can also be put to use by and for the benefit of Native Entities. Investment in digital literacy and adoption of high-speed Internet, among other uses, by covered populations can strengthen economies, support local businesses, provide access to telehealth services, and ensure cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated in the digital world. This is a critical step toward achieving true digital inclusion and equity for all.

Examples of Digital Equity's Impact for Native Entities

1. Education and Workforce Development: Students can access remote learning, digital resources, and online education programs. Digital equity ensures that both students and workers are able to participate fully in today's global economy no matter where they live, equipped with the digital literacy skills needed for modern career pathways.
2. Healthcare Access Through Telehealth: Many Native American communities are located far from medical centers, creating a barrier to timely care. Telehealth provides an innovative solution by allowing Tribal members to consult healthcare professionals remotely. This access enhances health outcomes, particularly for elders or individuals with chronic conditions who need regular monitoring and care.

3. Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship: Access to the Internet enables Tribal entrepreneurs to start and grow businesses, reach wider markets, and connect with global customers. Digital equity allows for better access to financial services, job applications, and economic resources, empowering entire communities to become more self-sufficient.

   For Tribal governments, this connectivity translates into greater economic sovereignty. It allows Tribes to invest in local businesses and Tribal governance operations, including grant management, data collection, and digital services for citizens. With digital equity, Tribal governments can more effectively manage resources, create job opportunities, and leverage online platforms to attract investments, furthering their goals of economic independence and long-term sustainability.

4. Cultural Preservation: Technology can help preserve traditions and share culture. Digital archives, online language courses, and cultural exchange platforms allow younger generations to learn about and engage with their heritage. Equitable access helps amplify Indigenous voices, ensuring that their stories and histories are preserved for future generations.

Looking Ahead

Digital equity is about more than technology-it's about ensuring that Native American communities can thrive in a connected world.

As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, NTIA is committed to supporting efforts that ensure no one is left behind in the digital age. We celebrate the resilience, ingenuity, and leadership of these communities in the face of ongoing challenges and look forward to continuing our work together to build a brighter, more connected future for all.

To learn more, access detailed guidance and apply for the Native Entities Capacity and Planning Grant Program, visit the BBUSA webpage. All applications are due by 11:59 PM Eastern Time (ET) on February 7, 2025.