Connected Latinos, African Americans and Asian digital citizens are contributing and creating content at a faster pace than the rest of the population (more on that - including some juicy factoids - later). In doing this they are influencing the digital conversations and shaping the general culture. This has led me to believe that multi cultural digital consumers are great advocates for the things they are passionate about. While their influence is felt and measured, the reality is that the total digital penetration for this groups still lacks behind that of the rest of the market. This is mostly driven by the costs of internet and mobile data services and their corresponding devices. Engaging more multi cultural digital citizens can be great for all - the culture, the community, brands, etc. This is the beginning on a series of posting on bridging the gap that drives the ethnic digital divide.
This clip comes from America Off Line
“Having a connection to fast, open and affordable Internet is no longer a luxury – it’s a public necessity. But America is suffering from a “digital divide.” Tens of millions of people – more than 40 percent of the country – can’t get online because they can’t afford a connection or can’t access high-speed Internet where they live. Consider the facts:
- Only 35 percent of homes with less than $50,000 in annual income have broadband, while 76 percent of homes earning more than $50,000 per year are connected.
- Nearly 20 million Americans live in places that are not served by a single broadband provider, while tens of millions more live in places where there is just one provider.
- Only 40 percent of ethnic minority households subscribe to broadband, while 55 percent of non-Hispanic white households are connected.”
