Northwest Wayne News

Detroit's Office of Digital Equity & Inclusion Director, Christine Burkette, has been recognized as a Digital Inclusion Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). This prestigious award acknowledges Burkette's efforts in bridging the digital divide and promoting digital inclusion in the city.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of digital inclusion, which encompasses access to affordable high-speed internet, devices, and digital skills training. Burkette's work in Detroit's Digital Equity and Inclusion Department has been instrumental in ensuring that all residents have equal access to these resources.

"In the City of Detroit, we are constantly striving to achieve greatness and that includes our digital equity efforts," said Christine Burkette. "The Office of Digital Equity and Inclusion works to identify discrepancies in the City and implement solutions that create an even playing field for all residents to have equal access to high-speed internet and effective technology."

Burkette's dedication to understanding the needs of Detroit's residents is evident in her approach to collecting data. Initially, she used sticky notes on her wall to calculate the total number of residents, identify demographic groups, and map out each individual neighborhood. This information served as the foundation for her community engagement and outreach initiative.

One of Burkette's notable achievements is the launch of Detroit's first interactive digital equity map. This map provides residents with direct access to information on how digital equity resources are allocated by neighborhood and need. It promotes transparency and ensures that resources are distributed equitably throughout the city.

In addition, Burkette has established the "City of Detroit Certified Tech Hub," an online portal that allows residents to locate the closest tech hub in their area. This hub provides information on digital equity resources, hours of operation, and accessibility, all in one convenient platform.

Recognizing the importance of digital literacy, Burkette has also launched a citywide basic digital literacy YouTube channel. This channel offers free online courses to residents, helping them improve their digital skills and prepare for new job opportunities.

Looking ahead, Burkette aims to provide low-income residents with access to high-speed internet through the city's Citywide Fiber Plan, which is currently in development. Her dedication to digital inclusion has earned her a place among a record number of Digital Inclusion Trailblazers this year.

"NDIA's Digital Inclusion Trailblazers exemplify the key role local governments have in building connected communities for all of their residents," said Angela Siefer, NDIA executive director. "For everyone to thrive in today's digital world, we need all hands on deck."

Burkette's achievements serve as a model for other local governments across the US, showing the way towards digitally inclusive communities. The NDIA's Trailblazer program highlights best practices and provides a platform for sharing resources and knowledge among community advocates and local governments.

Christine Burkette's dedication to digital inclusion in Detroit has been recognized with the Digital Inclusion Trailblazer award. Her efforts to bridge the digital divide and provide equal access to high-speed internet and digital skills training have made a significant impact on the city's residents. Through her initiatives, Detroit is paving the way for a digitally inclusive future.

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