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Our approach to equity

We define digital equity as “a state where all people and organizations can fully benefit from the digital technology necessary to succeed in the digital economy.”

At its core, digital equity is an element of overall societal equity. While many of the topics covered in this report can affect people from all ethnocultural and socio-economic backgrounds, we see disproportionate barriers facing certain demographic groups. For instance, while our surveys found that low income was a strong predictor of digital inequity, we know from previous research that systemic inequities—such as racism, colonialism, sexism, ableism, and ageism— and economic disparities are interlinked and intersectional.1 Some demographic groups are more likely to experience economic disparities due to these systemic inequities, and are therefore more likely to be impacted by digital equity barriers. 

Digital equity for Indigenous peoples

Indigenous peoples in Canada face unique challenges in this space, which require distinct and Indigenous-led solutions that are grounded in their inherent rights as the original inhabitants of this land. 

The First Nations Technology Council frames digital equity as a state in which Indigenous peoples, communities, and nations are “fully equipped to access and effectively use technology to contribute, thrive, and succeed in today’s digital society while preserving self-determination.”2 Critically, it also means that Indigenous peoples have influence over the design and future of technology, and have a meaningful seat at decision-making tables.

As with other inequities experienced by Indigenous peoples in Canada, digital inequity is rooted in the history and enduring legacy of colonialism. Colonial practices and policies, especially those that failed to recognize and respect Indigenous rights, resulted in deep and enduring socio-economic disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Without progress on digital equity, these disparities will continue to grow. 

Righting these wrongs will require an overhaul of the way many policies and business practices in Canada are developed. Throughout this report, we incorporate recommendations specific to Indigenous communities, which are underpinned by a critical need to ensure Indigenous voices are at the forefront of decision-making about improving digital equity

Important efforts are already underway by many Indigenous-led organizations, such as the First Nations Technology Council, to advance Indigenous technology leadership and self-determination.