Black Churches 4 Digital Equity Coalition on Wednesday will host its inaugural Juneteenth National Digital Equity Bible Study to mark the national holiday.
The event aims to promote digital equity and literacy in the Black community while embodying the spirit of Juneteenth by encouraging inclusion and empowerment in the digital age, organizers said.
It brings together key stakeholders from the faith, technology, education, and government sectors who are all committed to advancing digital inclusion.
Greater Grace Temple of David and Bishop Charles H. Ellis III, the church pastor, will co-host the event in Detroit and via Zoom. Black families, community organizers, educators, librarians, municipal leaders, state broadband leaders, economic development officers, scholars, researchers, policymakers, STEM professionals, technologists, tech activists, Black church futurists, Black tech ecosystem builders, public interest technologists, and anyone else who is passionate about eradicating the digital divide for Black communities should participate in the event.
“As community anchors, Black churches occupy a distinguished and valued role in guiding their congregations spiritually and navigating the complexities of today’s world,” said Fallon Wilson, vice president of policy for the Multicultural Media and Telecommunication Internet Council. “In our increasingly digital society, the gap between those with access to technology and those without has become more apparent, influencing areas such as education, health, employment, and the ability to maintain connections with others. Recognizing the critical role Black churches play in their communities and their mission to serve, Black Churches 4 Digital Equity Coalition believes they must be involved in significant initiatives such as the Juneteenth National Digital Equity Bible Study to bridge this digital divide.”
The event will take place on June 19 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and can be accessed virtually via Zoom (Meeting ID: 827 4938 1516) and at https://www.digitalequitybiblestudy.com.