On June 8th, LGBT Tech held the webinar “How to Get Our Community Members Online with a $50 Credit Towards Internet Service” featuring FCC Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, as well as LGBT Tech’s Chris Wood and Ellie Bessette to promote awareness of the FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program. Since the EBB program went live in May, millions of households have already registered to receive $50 or more towards their monthly internet services. LGBT Tech understands that the LGBTQ+ community is disproportionately affected by the digital divide, now more than ever during the pandemic, and wants to make sure that the LGBTQ+ community has the information needed to access this vital resource.
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced much of our lives into online spaces, which means that those without access to reliable internet or devices have been left without access to school, work, and necessary services. This has been especially impactful for LGBTQ+ individuals, many of whom additionally lost access to LGBTQ+ community centers that they normally rely on for informed care, information, and safe space. Many LGBTQ+ individuals who do not have access to basic broadband were isolated from these spaces and services as everything transitioned online during the pandemic.
Fortunately, EBB is now an available resource to the community to provide them with affordable monthly internet access as well as discounts towards devices. To learn more about what EBB entails, who qualifies, and how to access the benefit, you can watch the full webinar here. You can also visit our EBB resources page for more information about the program and how to apply.