Black Churches 4 Digital Equity (BC4DE), in collaboration with their church leader Bishop Charles Ellis of Greater Grace Temple, is excited to announce their kick-off event for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Day of Action in Detroit.
Event Details:
Time: Tuesday, August 8 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Location: Greater Grace Temple 23500 W Seven Mile Rd, Detroit, MI 48219
BC4DE’s ACP Day of Action in Detroit will take place simultaneously with events in 21 other major cities across 18 states. The month-long program is designed to assist eligible community members in enrolling for the federal Affordable Connectivity Program. Created by the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, the ACP offers a $30 monthly subsidy to help families in need purchase home internet service, covering the full cost of high-speed service from participating ISPs such as Comcast. Additionally, participants can receive a one-time $100 subsidy to help purchase a computer or tablet.
The Detroit kick-off event, featuring community leaders, activists, and representatives from Greater Grace Temple, will welcome students back to school while assisting eligible families in signing up for low-cost, reliable internet connectivity.
The city of Detroit has the lowest Internet connectivity in the United States. Through decisive community efforts to address this issue, Detroit now has the highest adoption of the ACP in any major city. With a diverse population with varying needs, ensuring affordable and reliable internet access is crucial to address disparities in education, economic opportunities, and social inclusion. By participating in the ACP Day of Action, Detroit residents and community church leaders are taking proactive steps towards closing the digital divide.
“29% of Black adults nationwide lack a reliable home internet connection. I’m inspired to see Black church leaders in Detroit empowering our community, just as they’ve done throughout their lifetimes,” said Dr. Fallon Wilson, VP of Policy at the Multicultural Media, Telecom, and Internet Council (MMTC) and lead organizer of the BC4DE Coalition. “Access to an affordable, reliable internet connection is the first step in breaking down barriers and unlocking the vast potential within our neighborhoods. With the Affordable Connectivity Program, we are bridging the digital divide and providing a pathway to education, economic prosperity, and social equity.”
“As a community, we recognize the power of connectivity and its potential to transform lives. By coming together for the Affordable Connectivity Program Day of Action, we are taking a significant step towards bridging the digital divide in Detroit. Access to affordable internet service is not just a convenience; it is a fundamental necessity in today’s digital age. I’m proud to stand alongside Black Churches 4 Digital Equity and our community as we work towards creating a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in the digital world.” – Bishop Charles Ellis, Greater Grace Temple and BC4DE Fellow.
We invite all members of the Detroit community to attend and participate in this essential effort to promote digital equity.
