PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) named the City of Pittsfield as a 2024 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer, recognizing the city’s efforts to close the digital divide. 


 


This is the second time Pittsfield is being recognized with this designation.


 


NDIA awarded a total of 60 awardees representing municipal, county, and regional governments.


 


In an increasingly connected society, digital inclusion—access to affordable high-speed internet, devices, and digital skills training—is essential not only to participate in today’s world but also to finding greater opportunities to thrive using tools to navigate the internet confidently and independently, stated a press release.


 


“The City of Pittsfield is honored to be recognized as a Digital Equity Trailblazer for the second consecutive year,” said Michael Obasohan, chief diversity officer. “This acknowledgment underscores our city departments’ commitment to ensuring equitable access to digital resources for all residents. We remain dedicated to closing the digital divide and fostering inclusive digital opportunities that empower our entire community.”


 


“In the past decade, we’ve seen local governments step into the important role of building digital inclusion ecosystems, where organizations that provide services can connect and thrive,” said Angela Siefer, NDIA executive director. “NDIA’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers celebrates these critical efforts to bring digital opportunities to all residents.”


 


Pittsfield achieved Trailblazer status by prioritizing digital inclusion for residents of their communities through:


  • Awarded implementation grant to start first phase of our Digital Equity Plan


  • Tech Talks with the Council on Aging


  • Technology Resource Fair at Berkshire Athenaeum



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