Despite gains in internet access across the U.S., digital divides persist among certain communities of color

As society becomes increasingly more technology-dependent, experts argue that high-speed internet should be present in all homes. However, digital divides are continuing to permeate the country with minorities being the ones primarily affected, according to a new report by the Office of Minority Broadband Initiatives (OMBI). The annual report shows that over 13 million new internet users came out of the U.S. within two years, from 2021 to 2023. But while a larger number of people are able to access the internet now, the gaps remain when it comes to digital connectivity efforts nationwide. According to the report, only 12% of people lived in households without the internet, but certain groups tend to be disproportionately affected by this trend. "Only 62% of Black Americans, 57% of American Indians and Alaska Natives, and 54% of Hispanics used a desktop, laptop or tablet," wrote Rafi Goldberg, a senior policy advisor on digital equity. Conversely, 72% of White non-Hispanics and 71% of Asians used a desktop, laptop or tablet in 2023, according to the survey.