I am deeply troubled by the recent court decision overturning the FCC’s net neutrality rules, which threatens the foundational principle of an open internet. This setback risks widening the digital divide, with the greatest harm falling on marginalized communities, small businesses, and rural areas already struggling to access reliable and affordable internet.
The internet has become an essential tool for education, economic opportunity, healthcare, and social connection. Without net neutrality protections, internet service providers (ISPs) could prioritize certain content, slow access to others, or charge higher fees for fair use, making critical resources less accessible to those who need them most.
This issue is about more than technology—it’s about equity and fairness. Removing protections allows corporations to reinforce existing inequalities, putting low-income families, people of color, and underserved communities at a greater disadvantage. The absence of an open internet could limit access to telehealth, online learning, and employment opportunities, deepening barriers that already exist.
Ensuring equitable access to the internet is a necessary step toward a more inclusive and just society. I urge you to advocate for strong legislation that establishes net neutrality as law, treating the internet as a public utility that serves everyone fairly. This is a chance to uphold the values of fairness and equality while addressing systemic inequities in our digital age.
Thank you for considering this important issue. I look forward to seeing your leadership in preserving the internet as an open and equal platform for all.