As more services, information, and opportunities move online, digital access has become essential to participating fully in modern life.
For the past five years, the Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition (GWDEC) has been helping to connect residents with access to the internet, digital devices, and the skills and support needed to navigate an evolving digital landscape.
To mark this milestone, GWDEC is hosting a special community event that will explore the digital divide and the future of equitable access to digital participation, while celebrating the partnerships and initiatives that have helped bridge the digital divide across Guelph-Wellington.
Jen Lisso, Chair of the Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition and Community Partnerships Librarian with the Guelph Public Library, will open the event with a presentation reflecting on five years of collaboration, community initiatives, and lessons learned. Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn about emerging challenges affecting digital equity as well as what is needed to enable everyone to benefit from advances in technology, if they want to.
"Digital equity is about more than access to technology. It's about personal agency and our ability to co-create a digital ecosystem that centers human dignity and societal inclusion, digital or otherwise," said Lisso. "We’ve seen what can happen when our community works together toward that goal, and this event gives us a chance to celebrate that progress while looking ahead to what's next."
The program will also feature a keynote presentation from Dr. Kem-Laurin Lubin, a Guelph-based researcher specializing in A.I. ethics and governance. Lubin will explore the growing role of A.I. in everyday life, including how automated systems and emerging technologies are influencing decisions that affect individuals and communities.
Following the presentation, members of GWDEC will lead a panel discussion exploring some questions and challenges facing digital inclusion. The event will conclude with closing remarks from Brian Sankarsingh, Communications and Engagement Liaison with the Alliance for Healthier Communities.
The event is free to attend. Registration is required for both in-person and virtual participation. Space is limited for in-person attendees. Those attending virtually will receive a Microsoft Teams invitation prior to the event.
To learn more or register, please contact Jen Lisso at jlisso@guelphpl.ca or visit the Library's website.
About Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition (GWDEC)
The Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition is a group of equity-driven members who work together to bridge the digital divide. We leverage our diverse backgrounds, resources and skills to create innovative solutions for those facing barriers to digital access.
Media contact
Jen Lisso, Chair
Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition
548-855-0397
jlisso@guelphpl.ca