Request For Comments: due August 15

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Which section(s) would you like to comment on? [ ]  Executive Summary [ ]  Introduction and Vision for Digital Equity [ ]  Current State of Digital Equity: Barriers and Assets [ ]  Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement [ ]  Implementation [ ]  Conclusion

Questions

Regarding: “MI Connected Future (MICF), an inclusive engagement model that aims to facilitate stakeholder and community engagement by promoting robust outreach and input, specifically targeted to covered populations.” What is the format of this model and how can it be accessed by members of the Hispanic community?

How will community leaders, who represent the same groups, but are in different geographic locations coordinate with each other? What mechanisms will be employed to help them to connect with each other? The vision statement includes the following:

Communities know communities best. Our vision is to approach the digital divide by employing a grassroots strategy where communities lead the conversation and work toward solutions in tandem with MIHI and other state agencies. By building off the existing work community leaders already have in place and resources available locally, and by providing support for technical assistance, by fostering connections between communities and existing programs and services (state, regional, or otherwise), while following a coordinated approach, Michigan will close the digital divide by 2030.

Please describe the types of surveys and data that were collected during listening sessions and needs assessments? How can this data be accessed?

Please name the groups interviewed that represent the concerns of the Hispanic community?

What are the types of digital skills that will be targeted for improvement and how will this be achieved? This can vary from how to use a mouse to how to start your own business online.

Are there existing webpages or will there be new pages for community engagement?

How will you select partners to assist with the development of training for digital navigators?

Here are some additional details regarding the questions and comments you could make to improve the outcome for Hispanics in Michigan to achieve digital equity:

  1. Are there any specific goals or initiatives in the DE Plan that address the unique challenges faced by Hispanic communities in Michigan?

This question is crucial in addressing the unique needs of the Hispanic community in Michigan. It is essential to ensure that the plan includes specific goals and initiatives that address the challenges faced by Hispanics in Michigan. For example, the plan could include initiatives that target areas with a high Hispanic population or initiatives that focus on providing digital skills to Hispanic youth.

  1. How will the DE Plan ensure that digital equity is accessible and achievable for Hispanic communities in rural or low-income areas?

This question is vital in ensuring that digital equity is accessible to all members of the Hispanic community, regardless of their location or income. It is essential to ensure that the DE Plan includes initiatives that target rural or low-income areas, such as setting up digital hubs in areas with limited internet access or providing low-cost internet services to low-income families.

  1. Does the DE Plan consider the linguistic diversity of the Hispanic community in Michigan, and provide resources or support for individuals who may not speak English fluently?

This question is critical in ensuring that the DE Plan is inclusive and equitable for all members of the Hispanic community, regardless of their language proficiency. It is essential to ensure that the plan includes resources or support for individuals who may not speak English fluently, such as providing digital resources in Spanish or offering language support services.

  1. Could the DE Plan benefit from input or feedback from Hispanic-led organizations or community members to ensure that it meets the needs of the Hispanic population?