WiFi Is Not a Luxury: Why Broadband Access Is a Policy Priority

By Ja’Lia Taylor, Ph.D., Director of Policy Telecommunications and Technology


In 2025, WiFi is as essential as electricity and clean water. It is not a luxury. It is a fundamental resource that connects people to education, employment, health care, and civic life. For Black women, who are often leaders in our homes, workplaces, and communities, access to reliable internet determines whether we can fully participate in today’s digital society. The COVID-19 pandemic ushered in a seismic alert that exposed and intensified the digital divide, making it undeniable that internet access is an essential need, not just for work and school, but for performing basic daily life activities, from accessing telehealth appointments to applying for public benefits and staying connected with loved ones.

The Realities of the Digital Divide

Without reliable WiFi, it is nearly impossible to apply for jobs, attend virtual classes, manage chronic health conditions through telehealth, or engage in online banking and services. Black women are starting businesses, attending college, caring for families, and leading social movements. Yet many of us still struggle with limited or no access to high-speed internet.

This digital divide is not just a technology gap. It reflects deeper inequities that have long affected Black, rural and marginalized communities. When internet access is unavailable or unaffordable, it cuts people off from opportunity and reinforces systemic barriers that we have fought hard to overcome.

What Federal Policy Can and Should Do

Federal policy has begun to address these inequities, but sustained action is required. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which helped more than 23 million households pay for broadband, officially ran out of funding on June 1, 2024. Its end created a cliff for families who depended on the monthly benefit to stay connected.

In response, lawmakers introduced the Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act of 2024, which would provide $7 billion to keep the program going through the end of the year. While it gained bipartisan support, Congress has not yet reintroduced or passed the bill. Without this assistance, millions of families face service interruptions or rising costs they cannot afford.

Another important program is the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, which provides funding to states to expand broadband infrastructure. These funds are intended to reach unserved and underserved communities. To be effective, states must ensure this funding is used equitably and transparently, particularly in communities where Black residents have historically lacked digital access. Currently the new administration has paused some of the projects under this program and are reviewing the eligibility.

Another key piece of legislation advancing digital access is the Digital Equity Act, which aims to eliminate barriers to broadband and digital skills for historically underserved communities. The Act establishes grant programs to support local efforts that promote digital literacy, increase access to devices, and engage in community outreach. While individuals cannot apply for these grants directly, nonprofits, schools, libraries, local governments, and other eligible organizations can apply through the Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program. These grants fund initiatives such as digital skills workshops, device distribution, and support services for seniors, low-income families, and rural residents. Interested organizations can find updates and application details through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) at broadbandusa.ntia.doc.gov.

Connectivity Beyond the Home

WiFi access should not depend on whether someone can afford a private router or home service. Public WiFi in libraries, community centers, transit stations, schools, and health clinics is vital. These spaces serve as digital entry points for individuals who may not have home broadband, allowing them to complete assignments, apply for jobs, or attend virtual appointments.

Expanding public WiFi is a practical and cost-effective way to support communities where the private market has failed to deliver reliable access.

Moving from Conversation to Action

Broadband must be treated as essential infrastructure. The internet should not be a privilege based on income or location. Policymakers at every level must take the following steps:

• Restore and expand funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program or pass a permanent alternative
• Ensure BEAD Program funds are distributed equitably, with accountability measures in place
• Fully implement the Digital Equity Act with clear guidance and local partnerships

Conclusion

When communities including Black women and families have access to fast, reliable, and affordable internet, we are able to lead, build, innovate, and thrive. WiFi is not just a connection to a network. It is a connection to power, knowledge, and opportunity.

The time for action is now. We cannot afford to leave another generation disconnected. Digital equity is not just about devices and cables. It is about justice. And when Black women are connected, we bring everyone forward with us.