ALLIANCE FOR CIVIC TECHNOLOGY -
https://www.civictechnologists.org/
From the website: "The Alliance of Civic Technology (ACT) connects volunteer civic technology efforts, in both technology and advocacy, in their local communities. Our goal is to ensure the continuity and growth of civic technology volunteer communities across the United States, and to fill the gap left by the sunsetting of Code for America’s Brigade program." This is an emerging organization still in formation. 

ARCHIEVING THE INTERNET - SAVING HISTORY.
https://www.pewresearch.org/data-labs/2024/05/17/when-online-content-disappears/
https://niemanreports.org/articles/saving-the-first-draft-of-history/
These links point to two articles focused on preserving Internet content.  One is from Pew Research Center, titled, "When Online Content Disappears".  The second is an interview with Mark Graham, director of the Wayback Machine at the Internet Archive, titled "Saving the first draft of history." Everything in this web library will potentially be lost in a few years if a simple solution to the questions these articles pose is not found.

A CHICAGOAN’S INTRODUCTION TO CIVIC TECH — 2018
https://blogs.microsoft.com/chicago/2018/01/19/chicagoans-introduction-civic-tech-2018/
From the web site: "This guide is a broad overview of civic tech communities & resources in Chicago to help with your role as civic leader and organizer (whether that role is ongoing or newly minted)."


AGGH! MILLIONS OF WINDOWS 10 PCS CAN'T BE UPGRADED AFTER 2025 - WHAT DO YOU DO?
https://www.zdnet.com/article/5-ways-to-save-your-windows-10-pc-in-2025-and-most-are-free/
Microsoft is introducing a new Windows 11 operating system in October 2024 and that's a disaster for millions who operate PCs with older operating systems.  This article offers some options.


AN ARTICLE ABOUT WEB3 AND WHY IT MATTERS - 2022 ARTICLE
https://dionhinchcliffe.com/2022/01/11/what-is-web3-and-why-it-matters/
This article offers an overview of Web3 technologies, including blockchain, distributed ledgers, smart chains, and more. If you've been reading about these technologies this is a good article to begin some deeper learning.

ARTICLES AND HOW-TOS ON TECH SOUP SITE
https://www.techsoup.org/support/articles-and-how-tos/few-good-association-management-tools?cg=searchterms&sg=membership%20software
This 2011 article about Association Management Tools is just one of many articles on Tech Soup that you can use to support your organization's work.

BROADBAND ACCESS POLICY - NEW COMPENDIUM OF RESOURCES (2015)
https://www.pellcenter.org/new-study-offers-guidance-for-expanding-broadband-access/
This study "helps state-level policy makers think through their broadband policy choices while pointing to real examples from progress made in efforts from Maine to California."

BROADBAND ILLINOIS
http://www.broadbandillinois.org/index.html
From the web site: "The Partnership for a Connected Illinois (PCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Springfield, Illinois.  PCI seeks to advance the deployment and adoption of high-speed internet services and information technology which has resulted in enhanced economic development and public safety for Illinois' communities, improved healthcare and educational opportunities and a better quality of life for the state's residents." 

BROADBAND LAND - ON-GOING SERIES ABOUT DIGITAL DIVIDE
https://www.vice.com/en/topic/broadband-internet-land
From the web: "For the last several months (of 2017), Motherboard has been chronicling the myriad ways communities passed over by big telecom have built their own internet networks or have partnered with small ISPs who have committed to protecting net neutrality to bring affordable high speed internet to towns and cities across the country."

BUILDING OUR OWN INTERNET - ARTICLE
https://www.vice.com/en/article/7x4y8a/net-neutrality-fcc-community-networks
This article describes work being done in many places to create a new Internet, free of corporate and/or political control and interference.  Bookmark the site and use it for future reference.

CAXY, INC - WEB DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
https://www.caxy.com/
From the web site: "Caxy Interactive is a web design and development firm in Chicago specializing in User Experience and Agile-driven software and technology development. We love helping clients break new ground, find new customers, and engage the ones they already have in unexpected ways."

CENTER FOR NEIGHBORHOOD TECHNOLOGY
https://www.cnt.org/vision-and-mission
From the web site:  "The Center for Neighborhood Technology is a nonprofit research and advocacy organization committed to improving urban economies and environments across the United States. We do this through innovation and by researching and analyzing urban problems, testing and promoting economically efficient and environmentally sound solutions, and demonstrating the value of investing in sustainable solutions."

CHICAGO CITY DATA USER GROUP - MEETS MONTHLY
https://www.meetup.com/ChicagoCityData/
From the web site: " The Chicago City Data Users Group is for end users, business users, enthusiasts, students, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in how to use city data. Our goal to promote civic engagement, innovation, and economic opportunity leveraging The City of Chicago's data."  The group host free meet-ups, usually the first Wednesday of the month, at the Microsoft headquarters in Chicago. NOTE: 10-2021 - due to Covid19 the face-to-face meetings have not been held since Spring 2020.

CHICAGO ENGINEERING AND TECH COMMUNITIES AND ORGANIZATIONS LIST 
https://github.com/driscoll42/chicago-engineering-and-tech-communities
This is an extensive list of Chicago focused Engineering Communities and organizations. 

CHICAGO HACK NIGHT - MEETS WEEKLY IN CHICAGO
https://chihacknight.org/
This Chicago group organizes a weekly event at the Merchandise Mart to build, share, and learn about civic tech. Visit the web site and see project list  showing what many are working on and find links to other data user groups in Chicago. Note: 10-2021 – face-to-face meetings have not been held since March 2021. Weekly events are on-line.

CITY OF CHICAGO DATA PORTAL - MAP OF CONNECTED ORGS & PLACES
https://data.cityofchicago.org/Education/Connect-Chicago-Locations-Map/4jzv-pgsc
From the web site: "Connect Chicago is a loose network of more than 250 places in the city where internet and computer access, digital skills training, and online learning resources are available—for free. This data set represents all the available details for every location. The content is updated regularly by site administrators and location managers."  

CIVICGRAPH - MAP OF CIVIC TECH SECTOR
https://www.civicgraph.io/
This network analysis map created by a team at Microsoft visualizes the four sectors of civic technology users.  A great tool for learning who else is in the field and building potential collaborations. 

CLUETRAIN MANIFESTO
https://www.cluetrain.com/
The Cluetrain Manifesto was first published in the late 90's, providing a vision of a world connected by the Internet.  Opening statement read, "People of the earth...a powerful global conversation has begun. Through the Internet, people are discovering and inventing new ways to share relevant knowledge with blinding speed." See this and more on the Cluetrain website. 

CONNECTING ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS - A BROADBAND ACTION PLAN (2016)
https://www.shlb.org/action-plan
From the web site: "“Connecting Anchor Institutions: A Broadband Action Plan” was developed by the SHLB Coalition to provide ideas and actionable policy recommendations for government leaders at the federal, state, and local levels to address the broadband needs of anchor institutions. The ten policy papers highlight connectivity gaps and explain why broadband access is vital to communities nationwide. “

CONNECTING TECHNOLOGIES TO CITIZENSHIP - UIC FORUM WHITE PAPER
https://urbanforum.uic.edu/
This is a white paper by Jane E. Fountain, National Center for Digital Government, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, which was submitted as part of the 2013 UIC Forum.  In the introduction the author writes "Among the key topics addressed in this white paper are the following: First, what is the state of connection between citizen and governments? Second, how does technology change and influence core elements of city government from the nature of governance itself to the challenges of service delivery to prospects for political participation and deepening citizenship? Third, and last, how are government services and information."  Included is a list of civic technology innovations that could be adopted in many cities. providers, brokers and decision makers in city government taking advantage of appropriate technologies to better meet citizen needs and demands?"

DATAMADE, A CIVIC TECHNOLOGY COMPANY IN CHICAGO
https://datamade.us/about-us/index.html
From the web site: "DataMade was born out of Chicago's Open Government community. In 2011, we started working on civic technology as volunteers of Open City. At nights and over weekends, we've helped make Chicago Lobbyists, Clear Streets, and Second City Zoning." DataMade is also a founder and host of the weekly ChicagoHackNight.

DIGITAL DIVIDE TECHNOLOGY ACCESS RESOURCES
https://www.edutopia.org/digital-divide-technology-access-resources
From the web site: "Learn more about the changing landscape of the "digital divide" in education and beyond, and explore resources that discuss how to help all students develop digital and media literacy."  This list was started in 2011 and updated in 2015.

DIGITAL SPACES DIRECTORY 
https://newpublic.org/directory
This website is aggregating links to digital spaces as a "jumping off point for further exploration and research for anyone who's interested in studying, building, stewarding, or simply using digital platforms."

E-DEMOCRACY FORUMS
http://forums.e-democracy.org/about/
From the web site:  "E-Democracy.org builds online public space in the heart of real democracy and community. Our mission is to harness the power of online tools to support participation in public life, strengthen communities, and build democracy.  Starting with the world's first election information website in 1994 in Minnesota, today we host over 50 local Issues Forums in 16 communities across three countries - New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In addition to these "online town halls," we promote civic engagement online around the world." 

EDUCATION SUPERHIGHWAY - FOCUSES ON INTERNET ACCESS IN SCHOOLS
https://www.educationsuperhighway.org/
From the web site: "EducationSuperHighway is the leading nonprofit focused on upgrading the Internet access in every public school classroom in America. We believe that digital learning has the potential to provide all students with equal access to educational opportunity and that every school requires high-speed broadband to make that opportunity a reality."  This site is full of data showing number of kids and schools with, and without, access to Internet. Search for info for each state.

EVERY LEARNER EVERYWHERE
https://www.everylearnereverywhere.org/how-we-work/
From the website: "Every Learner Everywhere is a network of twelve partner organizations with expertise in evaluating, implementing, scaling, and measuring the efficacy of education technologies, curriculum and course design strategies, teaching practices, and support services that personalize instruction for students in blended and online learning environments." The focus is on higher education. 

FOSS - FREE OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE
https://freeopensourcesoftware.org/index.php?title=Main_Page
View this wiki to learn more about FOSS and ways non profits and small organizations might benefit from using it.

FREE GEEK CHICAGO
https://www.freegeekchicago.org/about
FreeGeek Chicago is a not-for-profit community organization that  recycles used computers and parts to provide functional computers,  education, internet access and job skills training to those who want  them.

FREE SOFTWARE MOVEMENT - GNU SYSTEM
http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/free-sw.html
From the web site:  "The GNU operating system is the Unix-like operating system, which is entirely free software, that we in the GNU Project have developed since 1984. The GNU system contains all of the official GNU software packages (which are listed below), and also includes much non-GNU free software, such as the X Window System. Also, the GNU system is not a single static set of programs; users and distributors may select different packages according to their needs and desires. The result is still a variant of the GNU system."

DEVELOPMENTS IN CIVIC TECH IN ASIA AND AROUND THE WORLD
https://g0v.news/civic-tech-weekly-feb-19-can-a-i-block-isis-propaganda-ef524b63b4d4?gi=485be8d7e8b8
From the web site: "g0v News is a news platform that offers the latest trends and developments in civic tech in Asia and around the world. We aim to build a global community of civic tech enthusiasts by telling their stories, and sharing their experiences. We provide news updates, case studies, weekly digests, and interviews with the civic tech community, and by the civic tech community. g0v.news is also the world’s first Chinese/English bilingual civic tech news platform.

GITHUB - A PLACE TO SHARE CODE AND COLLABORATE ON PROJECTS
https://github.com/about
From the site: "GitHub is supporting a community where more than 20 million people learn, share, and work together to build software."

HOW TO MAKE A WEBSITE: FREE STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
https://websitesetup.org/
From the website: "This step-by-step guide walks you through every step you need to take to create a website for your business or yourself in an hour or less without using expensive tools."  

INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION - ISTE
https://iste.org/about/about-iste
From the website: "the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), home to a passionate community of global educators who believe in the power of technology to transform teaching and learning, accelerate innovation and solve tough problems in education. ISTE inspires the creation of solutions and connections that improve opportunities for all learners by delivering: practical guidance, evidence-based professional learning, virtual networks, thought-provoking events and the ISTE Standards."

INTERNET GROWTH SINCE 1970S - 40 MAPS
https://www.vox.com/a/internet-maps
This article tracks the growth of the internet since 1969, using maps to show this growth. Very interesting.

KANSAS CITY DIGITAL INCLUSION COALITION
https://digitalinclusionkc.org/
From the web site: "The Kansas City Coalition for Digital Inclusion is an open, collaborative group of Kansas City area nonprofits, individuals, government entities and business focused on fostering internet access and digital readiness in greater Kansas City. Membership meetings occur on a monthly or bi-monthly basis at the Kansas City Public Library."

LEARN-TECH-LIB - LEARNING AND TECHNOLOGY LIBRARY
https://www.learntechlib.org/
From the web site: "The LearnTechLib is the premiere online resource for aggregated, peer-reviewed research on the latest developments and applications in Learning and Technology.  Encompassing more than 25+ years and 100,000+ documents of published international journal articles, conference papers, e-books, and multimedia content from 200,000+ leading authors, the LearnTechLib connects research and learning within one platform."

MEETUPS IN CHICAGO - TECH, COLLABORATION, LEARNING
https://www.meetup.com/cities/us/il/chicago/tech/
This link points to a Meetups pages with a variety of tech related groups that host regular meetings in Chicago. Most are free.

NEWS GATHERING AND VERIFICATION TOOLS - MINING THE INTERNET
https://firstdraftnews.org/articles/10-discovery-and-verification-tools-for-newsrooms-on-a-budget/
The mass amounts of information available on the Internet is overwhelming. This 2016 article shows 10 different tools that can be used to gather information from various sources.

ON-LINE LEARNING CONSORTIUM
https://onlinelearningconsortium.org/
From the website: "The Online Learning Consortium™ (OLC) is a collaborative community of higher education leaders and innovators, dedicated to advancing quality digital teaching and learning experiences designed to reach and engage the modern learner – anyone, anywhere, anytime."

OPEN DATA SOURCES AND RESOURCES - CHICAGO
https://chihacknight.org/data-resources.html
This list of resources is compiled by the ChiHackNight group, composed of civic technology volunteers, which meets weekly at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago.

OPEN SOURCE COMMUNITY PLATFORM
https://opensource.com/open-source-way
From the web site: "The open source way is about applying the principles of open source software development beyond software. Beyond technology. Opensource.com is about sharing how the open source way can change our world in the same way the open source model has changed software."

PCS FOR PEOPLE - PCS FOR PEOPLE REFURBISHES DESKTOP AND LAPTOP COMPUTERS FOR DISTRIBUTION TO ELIGIBLE RECIPIENTS.
https://www.pcsforpeople.org/about-us/
From the website: "Through electronic reuse PCs for People provides the opportunity for all low-income individuals and nonprofits to benefit from the life changing impact of computers and mobile internet."  

PROCESS VS. PRODUCT: CIVIC INNOVATION BEYOND OPEN DATA AND CIVIC APPS
https://medium.com/code-for-america/process-vs-product-856076f7985f
The author writes about the growth of the Open Savannah Civic Tech group and says "Restoring trust in our civic institutions — and, in so doing, working to make local government more responsive to user needs — is not a project spec or a deliverable. It’s not something you can achieve in a sprint; it’s more like a long, continuous marathon that may or may not have a clear finish line." Good tips for similar groups throughout the world.

SPECTRUM DIGITAL EDUCATION - GRANTS PROGRAM
https://corporate.charter.com/digital-education
From the web site: "Spectrum supports nonprofit organizations that educate community members on the benefits of broadband and how to use it to improve their lives. We award grants across the country to help accomplish this goal."

TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT PAGE - CITY OF CHICAGO
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/progs/tech.html
From the website: “The City of Chicago is committed to leveraging technology to improve and expand City programs and services. In addition, the City aims to expand public access to technology across Chicago and is pursuing other digital excellence initiatives that encourage residents, businesses and communities to participate fully in 21st century online economic and social spheres.“

TECH & LEARNING - EDTECH RESOURCE
https://www.techlearning.com/features/about-us
From the web site: "Tech & Learning’s print and digital publications, websites, e-newsletters, and online and in-person events provide factual and evaluative information on trends, products, and strategies to education leaders who purchase technology products in their districts and schools." 

TECH SOUP, A FULL RESOURCE FOR TECHNOLOGY NEEDS
https://www.techsoup.org/
From the web site: "At TechSoup, people around the world find the information they need to make smart decisions about technology at their organizations.  U.S. organizations often first get to know TechSoup's product donation program, which provides eligible organizations with discounted software, hardware, services, and training.  Through our Global Network, organizations outside the U.S. gain similar access to the solutions they need. TechSoup's catalog includes more than 375 products from over 100 companies like Microsoft, Adobe, Cisco, Intuit, and Symantec.  Discover useful technology resources on TechSoup's blog, webinars, forums, newsletter, and articles and how-tos."

TECHNOLOGY FOR HUMANITY (T4H)
https://www.technologyforhumanity.org/
From the web site: "There has always been a gap between those people and communities who can make effective use of information technology and those who cannot. Now, more than ever, unequal adoption of technology excludes many from reaping the fruits of the economy.  We use the term "digital divide" to refer to this gap between those who can effectively use new information and communication tools, such as the Internet, and those who cannot. While a consensus does not exist on the extent of the divide (and whether the divide is growing or narrowing), researchers are nearly unanimous in acknowledging that some sort of divide exists at this point in time. We focus on minorities and people with disabilities, and we also occasionally help seniors and veterans."

TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (TIA) - POLICY ISSUES
https://tiaonline.org/news-publications/policy-filings/
From the web site: "The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) is the leading trade association representing the global information and communications technology (ICT) industry through standards development, policy initiatives, business opportunities, market intelligence and networking events. With support from hundreds of members, TIA enhances the business environment for companies involved in telecom, broadband, mobile wireless, information technology, networks, cable, satellite, unified communications, emergency communications and the greening of technology. TIA is accredited by ANSI." Click on the "advocacy" button on the web site to see a menu of policy issues TIA focuses on.

THE COMMUNICATION INITIATIVE NETWORK - DIGITAL AND DEVELOPMENT NETWORK - GLOBAL
https://www.comminit.com/ict-4-development/category/sites/global/ict-development
This link points to one sub-section of The Communication Initiative Network and Partnership web site.  This is an extensive library of information and people working on issues of importance throughout the world. Take time to browse the site. 

THE DIFFERENCE ENGINE - PRO BONO WEB SUPPORT FOR NON PROFITS
https://www.thedifferenceengine.io/
From the web site: "Our organization works with non-traditional entry level web developers not students and provides them with real life projects over a staggered 17 week program participation model. They work collaboratively within a team environment under the supervision and mentorship of experienced tech professionals. We offer our solutions PRO BONO to qualified nonprofit or social organizations.

THE OFFICE OF NATIVE AFFAIRS AND POLICY (ONAP) - DIGITAL DIVIDE ISSUES
https://www.fcc.gov/office-native-affairs-and-policy
From the website: "The Office of Native Affairs and Policy (ONAP) was established by FCC Order in 2010 to further the Commission's efforts to bring the benefits of modern communications to all Native communities."  The page includes a link to the Bureau of Indian Affairs' Tribal Leaders Directory website: sort bywww.bia.gov/tribal-leaders-directory. There you will find an electronic, map-based, interactive directory of information on each federally recognized Indian Tribe, as well as a separate Excel spreadsheet with the names and contact information of current Tribal leaders, among other information.

URBAN AND REGIONAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS ASSOCIATION - URISA
https://www.urisa.org/
From the web site: "URISA is a multi-disciplinary geospatial organization that provides professional education and training, a vibrant and connected community, advocacy for geospatial challenges and issues, and essential resources. URISA fosters excellence in GIS and engages geospatial professionals throughout their careers."

VISUALIZING SOCIAL MEDIA UNIVERSE IN 2018
https://www.visualcapitalist.com/social-media-universe/
This article has a great visualization showing relative size of different social media platforms in the world along with data tables showing number of users for each. 

YOUTH LEARN - STEM AND AFTERSCHOOL BIBLIOGRAPHY
http://youthlearn.org/resources/selected-research-and-resources-on-stem-afterschool-bibliography/
From the web site: "The YouthLearn team develops projects at the intersection of informal learning, 21st century literacy, and creative self-expression. Since 2003, YouthLearn has worked with numerous public and private clients to design programs, develop curriculum, and deliver professional development that provides educators the tools to empower young people and guide them in meaningful learning experiences connected with real world issues. Leveraging deep expertise in the management of complex national and international projects, we tailor content and instructional design to the needs of learners, crafting program strategies that foster powerful learning experiences." The resource section of the web site has many useful documents. This link points to two pdfs with STEM and Afterschool resources.

ALGORITHMIC JUSTICE LEAGUE RAISES AWARENESS ABOUT THE IMPACTS OF AI
https://www.ajl.org/
From the website: "The Algorithmic Justice League’s mission is to raise awareness about the impacts of AI, equip advocates with empirical research, build the voice and choice of the most impacted communities, and galvanize researchers, policy makers, and industry practitioners to mitigate AI harms and biases. We’re building a movement to shift the AI ecosystem towards equitable and accountable AI."

AT-RISK WEB LEARNERS: REDUCING BARRIERS TO SUCCESS
https://elearnmag.acm.org/featured.cfm?aid=1082221
This is an article written by JoAnn T. Funk, Associate Professor, Kaplan University. It was published in eLearn Magazine.  Anyone working with at-risk learners (youth or adults) would find this article to be a great discussion starter for strategic elearning planning.  This is one of many resources to be found on the eLearn Magazine web site.

BLACKBOARD COLLABORATE - ONLINE, BLENDED, AND MOBILE LEARNING
https://www.blackboard.com/teaching-learning/collaboration-web-conferencing/blackboard-collaborate
From the web site:  "Our Learning Solutions are designed to support the educational needs of your students, faculty, and institution—both now and in the future. Cost-effective combinations of Blackboard products and services are strategically blended to provide you with the technology and support best suited to your institution’s needs. Ultimately, by delivering robust, online learning environments with flexible delivery options, your institution will deliver the accessibility that your students and faculty are looking for, while improving engagement and retention."

BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE ON NATIVE LANDS
https://newsroom.cisco.com/feature-content?type=webcontent&articleId=2088702
This August 2020 article describes efforts to bridge the digital divide and build connectivity for Native Americans. 

BROADBAND AVAILABILITY AND ADOPTION - INTERACTIVE MAP
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/e6d25b67ec0b45978f8c5f225e266e94
Use this new (2021) ESRI GIS map to understand broadband availability in the USA. 

BROADBAND INTERNET ACCESS IN THE US
https://geoisp.com/us/
This site states that "In the United States 99.73% of the population has access to Broadband Internet and the average home download speed is 6.70215 Mbps. 2.97% of the population does not have access to wired broadband Internet Access." Use the map on the site to see access for different types of coverage.

CELL PHONE COVERAGE - WORLD WIDE
https://www.opensignal.com/networks/thailand/ais-coverage
This link points to coverage maps for mobile operators in Thailand, based on data crowdsourced from millions of users of the OpenSignal mobile app. The OpenSignal.com/networks page has similar information for every country in the world.

CHICAGO AREA BROADBAND INITIATIVE - CABI
https://www.quiltnfp.com/
From the website: "CABI is an affordable broadband initiative focused on bridging the digital divide in urban underserved communities.  CABI is not just about providing internet access -- it's about utilizing the access to the internet to expand and grow opportunity within our communities."

CHICAGO DIGITAL EQU ITY PLAN - 2023
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/digital-equity-council/home.html
This plan is the result of June-October 2022 community conversations. It's the launch of the Chicago Digital Equity Coalition intended to close the digital divide in Chicago.

CONNECT ILLINOIS -
https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/ConnectIllinois/Pages/default.aspx
Launched in 2019, Connect Illinois is "a statewide initiative to expand broadband access across the entire state. Connect Illinois includes a capital investment from Rebuild Illinois, the creation of a Broadband Advisory Council and Broadband Office, and a new program that will provide all Illinois public K-12 students access to high-speed broadband at no charge."

DIGITAL DIVIDE - MAPPING FOR JUSTICE BLOG ARTICLE
https://mappingforjustice.blogspot.com/search/label/digital%20divide
This collection of articles on MappingforJustice blog contain links to many additional articles about the Digital Divide that may not be included in this web library.

DIGITAL DIVIDE: DATA HIGHLIGHTS INTERENT INEQUALITIES IN CHICAGO - 2022 ARTICLE
http://datascience.uchicago.edu/news/digital-divide-data-highlights-internet-inequities-in-chicago/
The Data Science Institute at the University of Chicago unveiled a new data portal on May 9, 2022 that seeks to address disparities  highlighted by the COVID pandemic with a combination of new research, data analysis and communication and community collaboration.  This article announces this initiative. 

DIGITAL DIVIDE IN US EDUCATION
http://digitaldivideinuseducation.blogspot.com/
From the web site: "This blog is dedicated to looking at the nuances of the digital divide in the United States and the implications that it has for students, teachers, and school districts."

DIGITAL PROSPERITY: HOW BROADBAND CAN DELIVER HEALTH AND EQUITY TO ALL COMMUNITIES
https://www.brookings.edu/research/digital-prosperity-how-broadband-can-deliver-health-and-equity-to-all-communities/
From the website: "Over the past year, Brookings Metro and the National Digital Inclusion Alliance pursued research to understand the connections between broadband and health and equity, as well as assess the gaps in broadband access and adoption, the market and policy barriers that lead to those gaps, and promising points of intervention for local, state, and federal leaders to deliver shared value to individuals and entire communities." Download the full report from this link.

EMERGENCY BROADBAND BENEFIT PROGRAM - FCC
https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit
From the website: "The Emergency Broadband Benefit is an FCC program to help families and households struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, virtual classrooms, and so much more."  

FIND ISP PROVIDERS USING THIS MAPPING PLATFORM
https://labs.mapbox.com/labs/net-neutrality/
Enter an address and look at the ISPs you can choose from. 

FREEDOM OF THE INTERNET AROUND THE WORLD: 50 KEY STATS
https://www.privateinternetaccess.com/blog/internet-freedom-around-the-world-in-50-stats/
This 2021 blog article uses infographics to communicate key stats about freedom of the Internet around the world.  

GCF GLOBAL LEARNING
https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/
From the web site: "For more than a decade, the GCFLearnFree.org program has helped millions around the world learn the essential skills they need to live and work in the 21st century. From Microsoft Office and email to reading, math, and more, GCFLearnFree.org offers more than 180 topics, including more than 2,000 lessons, 800+ videos, and 55+ interactives and games, completely free."

GLOBAL INTERNET ACCESS MAPS - USE IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES SHOWN
https://www.internetsociety.org/globalinternetreport/
While some countries have very high internet access rates many others are still below 50%. This means the vast knowledge available through the internet is not accessible for many.  

HALF THE WORLD'S POPULATION STILL NOT ON INTERNET - WHY IT MATTERS. 2018
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/05/half-the-world-s-population-is-still-offline-heres-why-that-matters
This World Economic Forum article includes a world map showing how internet use is concentrated in the USA, Europe and a few other scattered places around the world, while in many other places there is limited connectivity. Read the article and see why this matters.

HOME INTERNET ACCESS IN US - 2018 DATA
https://www.digitalinclusion.org/home-internet-maps-2/
The maps on this site are describe this way: "On these base maps, we’ve calculated and mapped two crucial data points from the ACS:
* What percentage of households in each Census tract had no home internet access at all in 2017 — not even mobile internet or dial-up connections?  (The higher this percentage is, the worse for digital inclusion!)
* What percentage of households in each Census tract had “Broadband such as cable, fiber optic or DSL” in 2017? (The higher this percentage is, the better for digital inclusion!)

HOW TO CLOSE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN THE US - 2021 ARTICLE
https://illinoisnewstoday.com/how-to-close-the-digital-divide-in-the-u-s/338700/
This article on Illinois News Today website provides recommendations for closing the digital divide along with data showing why this is important.

HOW TO CLOSE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN THE US - 2022 HBR ARTICLE
https://hbr.org/2021/07/how-to-close-the-digital-divide-in-the-u-s
The American Jobs Plan is a significant step to closing the digital divide, but not nearly enough.  Read the article. 

ILLINOIS BROADBAND INTERACTIVE MAP - CONNECT ILLINOIS RESOURCE
https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/ConnectIllinois/Pages/MapData.aspx
From the website "Existing broadband maps available to the public often overstate service and inaccurately paint large swaths of rural areas and entire urban blocks as having service that quite simply does not exist. The Illinois Office of Broadband is working hard to produce maps that more accurately reflect reality; the maps will be available in 2020 and will reflect data collected from broadband providers and confirmed through field testing and consumer experience." 

JOURNAL OF DISTANCE LEARNING ADMINISTRATION
https://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/
From the web site: "The Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration is a peer-reviewed electronic journal offered free each quarter over the World Wide Web. The journal welcomes manuscripts based on original work of practitioners and researchers with specific focus or implications for the management of distance education programs."

LOAVES, FISHES & COMPUTERS HELPS CLOSE DIGITAL DIVIDE
https://www.loavesfishescomputers.org/
From the website: "Loaves, Fishes & Computers, located in Salinas, California, enables individuals to reach their full potential by providing low-cost computers and computer literacy classes to local low-income families, while providing volunteers the opportunity to learn and explore technology through their service to the community."

MOBILE TECH AND EDUCATION - 2011 ARTICLE
https://mashable.com/archive/mobile-education-initiatives
This 2011 article about using mobile phones in education says: "Students around the world are increasingly bringing their own mini-computers (or some connected device) to class. Whether this creates  a distraction or a boon to learning is debatable, but these four uses  of mobile phones in education — and countless others — could one day  help prove the latter." Read more on this web site." Compare this to how mobile tech is used today. 

NATIONAL DIGITAL INCLUSION ALLIANCE
https://www.digitalinclusion.org/
From the website: "NDIA is a unified voice for home broadband access, public broadband access, personal devices, and local technology and training programs." Visit the web site to learn more about NDIA's unique role. 

NATIONAL TRIBAL BROADBAND STRATEGY - 2021
click here
This document was developed by the US Department of Interior, Indian Affairs, in 2018 with the support of several other government agencies.  From the website:  "The National Tribal Broadband Strategy (Strategy) is a proposed roadmap for action and investment by the Federal Government in broadband access and adoption for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities with the aim of eliminating the AI/AN connectivity gap."

OLD, SLOW LAPTOPS ARE SABOTAGING COLLEGE STUDENT SUCCESS
https://www.edsurge.com/news/2021-04-05-old-slow-laptops-are-sabotaging-college-student-success?
This 2021 article focuses on college students, but the problem reached down to k-12 levels, too.  Kids and schools in high poverty areas don't have funds for constant upgrades of their computer hardware. That's a problem. 

ONLINE LEARNING CONSORTIUM - QUALITY ONLINE EDUCATION
https://onlinelearningconsortium.org/
From the web site: "OLC is the leading professional organization devoted to advancing quality online learning by providing professional development, instruction, best practice publications and guidance to educators, online learning professionals and organizations around the world."

OUR SHARED DIGITAL FUTURE - WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM 2018
https://www.weforum.org/reports/our-shared-digital-future-building-an-inclusive-trustworthy-and-sustainable-digital-society
From the web site: "Our Shared Digital Futures is a publication shaped by leaders from business, government, academia and civil society who collectively acknowledge the need for shared goals and coordinated action to shape an inclusive, sustainable, digital future. Facilitated by the World Economy Forum’s System Initiative on Digital Economy and Society, the paper reviews current status, offers an illustrative list of ongoing initiatives at global and local levels, and identifies developments to watch in at least six shared goals around universal internet access and adoption, digital transformation, digital identity, governance, cyber resilience, and data. It calls on global leaders and organisations to strengthen cooperation and to evolve shared platforms for shaping our digital future.

PROMOTING UNIVERSAL BROADBAND ACCESS - 2021 BLOG
https://buildingcreativebridges.wordpress.com/category/change-the-world/
This link points to the first of three articles written by Paul Signorelli that focus on Universal Broadband Access.  The articles are an interview with Beth Holland, Partner at The Learning Accelerator and Digital Equity Advisor to the Consortium for School Networking. 

PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE AND HEALTH EQUITY - RWJF COLLECTION
https://www.rwjf.org/en/library/collections/public-infrastructure-and-health-equity.html
From the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation website: "This is a collection of references and creative solutions designed to inspire new policies and planning that shape equitable access to public infrastructure." Included is digital access.   Here is a March 2022 Tweet which shows that "neighborhoods experiencing deep poverty are the least connected to broadband".

SCHOOLS SPENDING MILLIONS ON NEW VIRTUAL TUTORING. iS IT WORKING?  2022 ARTICLE
https://www.chalkbeat.org/2022/6/29/23186973/virtual-tutoring-schools-covid-relief-money
In response to Covid the Federal government has made millions of dollars available for virtual tutoring to help fill gaps for students who lost ground when schools were fully online.  This article is from Chalkbeat Chicago. 

SHAPING.EDU STORYBOOK OF BROADBAND ACCESS + DIGITAL EQUITY: VOLUME 1
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/14kAf_FcIlZB9wMGWNf-WasloG33SV9w1P2zj9CCArpE/edit#slide=id.gc7479a3901_0_10
This Google slide presentation is a collection of stories about broadband access and digital equity, told by teachers, principles, parents from across the USA.  This was first published in June 2021. 

TECH EQUITY MIAMI - SEEKS TO SUPPORT CRADLE TO CAREER TECH INCLUSION (LAUNCHED 2023)
https://www.techequitymiami.org/
From the website: "Tech Equity Miami is a funding consortium that aims to deploy $100 million in philanthropic funding over five years into initiatives that remove entry barriers into the tech industry and that will create opportunities for underrepresented groups, including youth and small businesses."

THE DIGITAL EDGE: HOW BLACK AND LATINO YOUTH NAVIGATE DIGITAL INEQUALITY
https://nyupress.org/9781479854110/the-digital-edge/
This book by S. Craig Watkins and Alexander Cho was published in 2018.  From the website: "The Digital Edge examines how the digital and social-media lives of low-income youth, especially youth of color, have evolved amidst rapid social and technological change.'

THE SAKAI PROJECT - FOCUSES ON NEEDS OF GLOBAL ACADEMIC COMMUNITY
https://www.sakailms.org/
From the web site: "Sakai represents a fundamentally different approach to the learning management system. Unlike other “open” systems available today, the direction and feature set of Sakai originates from within higher education to address the dynamic needs of a global academic community. The Sakai open-source community values the participation of its contributors highly, with educators and developers from various institutions working together to turn great ideas into reality for the entire community of Sakai adopters."

TURNING AMERICA'S DIGITAL DIVIDE INTO DIGITAL DIVIDENDS – IDEAS FOR BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION – 2021
https://sites.tufts.edu/ibgc/webinar-recording-turning-americas-digital-divide-into-digital-dividends/
This March 2021 webinar "discusses why we are so divided about the true state of the digital divide in America and what steps might the Biden-Harris administration take to clarify the reality of this divide and move toward closing the gap. Moreover, this webinar examines how these changes can be transformational for a recovering, yet socially distanced economy."

WEB TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM - AN INSPIRATION - 2007
https://eldertown.wordpress.com/2007/03/29/the-spark-that-drives-web-20-technology-in-the-classroom/#more-109
This 2007 article shows how a class of 4th graders in Nevada connected through the internet with a class of 8th graders in Virginia, in order to help a home student who could not attend class because of health issues. Classrooms all over the world are doing this many years later.

WEBQUEST RESOURCE PAGE
http://academics.smcvt.edu/cbauer-ramazani/Links/webquests.htm
This is a Web site with an extensive collection of links to resources on WebQuests, including the articles and sites produced by Bernie Dodge and Tom Marsh, the originators of WebQuests (1995).

Technology and Digital Divide-Access Resource Links Section of the Tutor/Mentor Library.

This section of the library focuses on uses of the Internet and Digital Tools. 
The site where this information has been hosted is now only available as an archive.

Making Internet access available to everyone, along
with hardware, software and training, should be a
priority of every elected leader, as well as businesses,
schools and non-school tutor/mentor programs.


The links below are sub-categories in this section of the library.

If you find broken links send information to tutormentor 2 at earthlink.net

Digital Access, Digital Divide - click here

Technology Resources and Networks - click here

Cool Digital Tools, including links to Artificial Intelligence resources - click here

As volunteers become connected to youth living in high poverty areas they begin to understand the challenges facing those kids and their families and schools. Other sections of this library provide links to articles and research providing a deeper understanding of these challenges. This section point to websites that focus on political actions needed to elect people at the state and Federal level who understand these challenges and are committed to legislation and leadership that reduce and/or remove them.

NOTE:  All of the articles below were posted before November 2024 and Trump's victory.  They are still valuable resources but I think you should start with this one:

INDIVISIBLE: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO DEMOCRACY ON THE BRINK: STRATEGIES, TACTICS, & TIPS FOR HOW EVERYDAY AMERICANS CAN FIGHT BACK TOGETHER WHEREVER WE LIVE
https://indivisible.org/resource/guide
From the website: "This document is for anyone who lives in America and is upset, scared and determined.  It's a set of strategies and practical first steps to help you get started. Review this guide and start putting parts of this into action that makes sense for where you live.

Point your volunteers and supporters to this page when they ask "What more can I do?"

11 WAYS TO FIX AMERICA’S FUNDAMENTALLY BROKEN DEMOCRACY
https://www.vox.com/21336225/voting-rights-senate-electoral-college-gerrymandering-supreme-court
This September 2020 article in VOX outlines 11 ways to fix America's broken democracy.  If you're looking for suggestions this is a good list.


A STRATEGY TO FIX AMERICAN DEMOCRACY - FINAL 5 VOTING
https://political-innovation.org/final-five-voting/
From the website:  "Final-Five Voting is the powerful combination of (1) top-five primaries and (2) instant runoff voting in the general election. In Final-Five Voting primary, all candidates running for congress will appear on a single ballot, and all voters can participate in the primary, regardless of whether they are registered with a party."  

US CONGRESS ELECTION - INTERACTIVE MAP
https://www.270towin.com/2024-house-election/
This site includes map of the United States and details on every congressional race. Use to identify progressive candidates and give them your support and your vote. This link points to the current Congress and will be updated as redistricting is completed prior to November 2024 elections.

5-POINT VISION FOR A FUTURE AFTER COVID-19
https://democracycollaborative.org/owning-our-future
The Democracy Collaborative has developed a vision for a future after Covid-19, centered around a 5-point strategy that you will find at this link.  The article is dated June 2020.

A BETTER OPTION THAN COURT-PACKING: LEGISLATING - 10-2020 ARTICLE
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2020/10/20/biden-court-packing-alternatives/
This Oct. 2020 Washington Post article offers a solution to Democratic Party and Progressive fears that the Federal Courts have been packed with ultra conservative judges who will turn back progress made over past 50 years.  Instead of adding more judges just legislate into law those policy issues. Read the article. It's an option to consider. 

AN ARTICLE ABOUT RANKED CHOICE VOTING COMBINED WITH FINAL FIVE VOTING - 2023
https://www.tucsonsentinel.com/nationworld/report/121923_rank_choice_voting/how-new-way-vote-gaining-traction-states-and-could-transform-us-politics/
This article from the Tuscon Sentinel shows describes what 'ranked choice voting' and 'final five voting' are, and how these new ways to vote are gaining traction in many states.

A GUIDE TO THE CORPORATIONS THAT ARE DE-FUNDING PUBLIC EDUCATION
https://news.littlesis.org/2018/05/14/a-guide-to-the-corporations-that-are-de-funding-public-education-opposing-striking-teachers/
This 2018 article's full title is "A Guide to the Corporations that are De-Funding Public Education & Opposing Striking Teachers".  The "article lays out some information about the corporations, banks, and billionaires that teachers in Oklahoma, Arizona, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Colorado are up against." A network analysis map for each state shows the wealthy donors who are supporting political efforts that reduce taxes on the wealthy and reduce funding for public education."

ADVANCE ILLINOIS PROMOTES PUBLIC EDUCATION
https://www.advanceillinois.org/about-us/mission-history/
From the web site: "Advance Illinois is equity-driven, student-centered, data-focused and connected to community and educators. We identify, design, advocate for and help to implement policies that are grounded in nationally recognized best practices and then tailored to the needs of students in Illinois."  The web site is full of great resources to help citizens better understand and debate the issues relating to public education in Illinois. 

ADVOCACY BY AND FOR COMMUNITY - WIKI PAGE
http://commparadigmdiigoupdates.blogspot.com/2017/07/new-wiki-page-advocacy-by-and-for.html
This blog article, and the wiki that it points to, includes links to many web sites that focus on the three sectors of democracy, political, market place and civil society.  Hosted by Brian G. Dowling.

ALL ON THE LINE - REDISTRICTING 
https://www.allontheline.org/#mission
From the web site: Whether you care about providing access to affordable health care, reducing the gun violence that plagues our schools and communities, protecting voting rights, achieving equal pay, or solving the urgent threat of climate change, there is a fundamental structural barrier that prevents progress: rigged electoral maps drawn with surgical precision by politicians to preserve their party’s political power and silence the will of the people."

ALLSIDES - LOOK AT NEWS FROM ALL SIDES
https://www.allsides.com/unbiased-balanced-news
From the web site: "Unlike regular news services, AllSides exposes bias and provides multiple angles on the same story so you can quickly get the full picture, not just one slant."  Browse the site and form your own opinion.

BALLOT PEDIA - FOLLOW ELECTIONS ACROSS THE USA
https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_House_of_Representatives_elections,_2024
This site is a comprehensive encyclopedia of election information, both historical, and upcoming.  If you want to follow contested elections in every state this could be a good resource.

BASIC INCOME - RESOURCE THREAD ON TWITTER
https://twitter.com/scottsantens/status/1662124595892060161?s=20
One of the most prominent advocates for Basic Income is Scott Santens, who has been researching and advocating for the concept of universal basic income (UBI) since 2013.  He has been sharing research on this Twitter thread for several years.  See his UBI Guide website at https://www.scottsantens.com/

BLUE24.ORG - RAISING MONEY FOR DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES IN 2024 ELECTIONS
https://blue24.org/
From the website: "This website has links to ActBlue pages where you can donate directly to one, two or dozens of Dems running for office. All funds go to the campaigns listed. The website host receives nothing."

BUILDING A MOVEMENT TOWARD EQUALITY IN AMERICA - ROBERT REICH
https://robertreich.org/
Robert Reich's web site and Facebook page offer daily commentary on issues of inequality and how we mobilize to reduce this problem.

CAMPAIGN ZERO MAPS STEPS TO POLITICAL ACTION TO REDUCE POLICE VIOLENCE
https://campaignzero.org/solutions#solutionsoverview
From the web site: The website provides "a comprehensive package of urgent policy solutions - informed by data, research and human rights principles - to change the way police serve their communities."

CAN WE HEAL OUR GREAT DIVIDE? | HEDRICK SMITH | TED X
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRbCRuPkddg&sns=em
In this video, Hedrick Smith, "An investigative journalist explores the cause of economic disparity in the United States, its effects, and what we can do to correct our course as a country. In the earlier half of the 20th century, workforce productivity and median hourly wages increased equally. In the 1970's everything began to change as economic growth was channeled toward the 1%." 

CENTER FOR POPULAR DEMOCRACY 
http://populardemocracy.org
From the website: "The Center for Popular Democracy works to create equity, opportunity and dynamic democracy in partnership with high-impact base-building organizations, organizing alliances, and progressive unions.  CPD strengthens our collective capacity to envision and win an innovative pro-worker, pro-immigrant, racial and economic justice agenda."

CENTER FOR AN INFORMED PUBLIC - UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON - FOCUS ON MISINFORMATION AND AN INFORMED SOCIETY
https://www.cip.uw.edu/
From the website: The "Mission of the Center is to resist strategic misinformation, promote an informed society, and strengthen democratic discourse."  This is an extensive resource. Take time to learn what is available.

CENTER FOR MEDIA AND DEMOCRACY - INVESTIGATES CORRUPTION AND CORPORATE FRONT GROUPS
https://www.exposedbycmd.org/
From the website: "The Center for Media and Democracy (CMD) is a nationally recognized watchdog that leads in-depth, award-winning investigations into corruption that undermines our democracy, environment, and economic prosperity."  

CENTERING BLACKNESS: THE PATH TO ECONOMIC LIBERATION FOR ALL
https://medium.com/economicsecproj/centering-blackness-the-path-to-economic-liberation-for-all-f6c2c7398281
This is June 2020 article from the Economic Security Project, https://www.economicsecurityproject.org/, which says "In these times of extreme racial and economic inequality, we must move beyond “normal” in our COVID recovery efforts, and follow the lead of the Movement for Black Lives. By centering Black people in the creation of new policies, systems, and institutions — in the pursuit of economic liberation for all — we can and must reject the ideology grounded in white supremacy and anti-blackness, shift narratives to reinvigorate our shared imagination, and disrupt the imbalance of power in our society." The article includes links to other resources and is intended to provoke thinking and innovation "in the pursuit of economic liberation for all".  Take time to read, reflect, and share with friends and family.

CHICAGO PROJECT ON SECURITY AND THREATS - U. CHICAGO
https://cpost.uchicago.edu/
The Chicago Project on Security and Threats  (CPOST) is doing cutting edge research on terrorism and motivations that drive participation in events, such as the January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capital.  Dig through the site to discover available reports. 

CHICAGO UNITED FOR EQUITY (CUE)
https://www.chicagounitedforequity.org/
From the web site: "Imagine a Chicago that Works for All of Us.  Who we are: We are neighbors who believe in racial justice. We're fighting for a Chicago where all of our children have an equal opportunity to shine. Where zip codes can't predict school resources. Where our voices matter to our leaders. And we're working across race, class, and ward lines to build the Chicago we deserve."

CITY RIGHTS IN AN ERA OF PREEMPTION - NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES
https://www.nlc.org/initiative/local-democracy-initiative/
From the web site: "Preemption is the use of state law to nullify a municipal ordinance or authority. In some cases, preemption can lead to improved policy statewide. However, preemption that prevents cities from expanding rights, building stronger economies, and promoting innovation can be counterproductive when decision-making is divorced from the core wants and needs of community members."

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT - UNDERSTAND THE CYCLE TO HELP KEEP PEOPLE INVOLVED
https://medium.com/ndp-annotations/the-cycle-of-engagement-c19a9788ba17
From the web site: "This post introduces the Cycle of Engagement, a new framework for understanding the stages of how Americans engage in civic life today. The New Data Project recently made this research public during a talk at the 2018 NewFounders Conference in Chicago."

CIVIL SOCIETY FOR THE 21ST CENTURY - 2018 SSIR ARTICLES
https://ssir.org/civil_society_for_the_21st_century
This article series on the Stanford Social Innovation Review (SSIR) web site is presented in partnership with Independent Sector. It's described as "a chance to focus, for a change, on the oxygen that makes our common life possible and good—to examine and appreciate and question and commit. Over the coming weeks, some of today’s leading thinkers and practitioners will explore important issues of civil society in the 21st century: its origins and evolution, its boundaries and blind spots, its values and variety, its obstacles and opportunities."

CLINE CENTER FOR DEMOCRACY AT UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
https://clinecenter.illinois.edu/
From the web site: "The Center's mission encompasses several research activities, including monitoring civil unrest around the world; tracking the over-time development of economic, political, and social indicators for 165 countries; and developing new machine algorithms and analysis tools for studying the tens of millions of articles in the Cline Center's global news archive. The Center's mission also supports a wide range of teaching and public engagement activities, from fellowship programs for faculty and graduate students to undergraduate research opportunities and topical symposium for the University of Illinois campus." 

CLIMATE CHANGE - PROGRESS AT THE STATE LEVEL
https://lcv.org/article/memo-states-continue-to-show-impressive-progress-on-climate/
This LCV (League of Conservation Voters) website tracks legislation at the state and federal level and shows what's happening in different states.  By aggregating this information people in different places can see what is succeeding in other places, and use this to fuel legislation success in their own states. 

COLOR OF CHANGE - FOCUS ON RACIAL JUSTICE IN AMERICA
https://colorofchange.org/about/
From the web site: "Color Of Change is building a new, effective strategy for changing the rules society lives by, and ending the injustices Black people face."

COMIC BOOK PROJECT AIMS TO STOP PROJECT 2025 
https://stopproject2025comic.org/
A network of comic book artists and writers who are concerned about Project 2025 made a series of comics to explain some of the agenda items so people would not have to read the huge document to understand what is at stake.

COMIC BOOK REVIEW: THIS IS WHAT DEMOCRACY LOOKS LIKE
https://dogtrax.edublogs.org/2019/09/06/comic-book-review-this-is-what-democracy-looks-like/
From the article: "This Is What Democracy Looks Like is a comic book that explores American Democracy, tackling not just the structure of government (from the very top — president, congress, courts — to the most localized — town meetings) but also to show how every voter has an obligation to take part in keeping Democracy alive and vibrant."  Take time to read the article, then the comic book.


DATA CENTER RESEARCH FOR JUSTICE
http://www.datacenter.org/research-tools/
From the web site:  "For over 30 years, DataCenter has been an independent research organization for social justice movements and grassroots organizing. Rooted in progressive social movements and grounded in values of justice and self-determination for communities, we use research as a tool to centralize community power and transform society."   This link points to a page showing research tools and ideas.

DEMOCRACY LABS - VOTER RESOURCES TO PROTECT DEMOCRACY - 2-28-2024
https://thedemlabs.org/2024/02/28/voter-resources-protect-democracy/
From the website: "Democracy Labs is a hub for ongoing technology and creative innovation in service of a healthy democracy at the national, state and local levels.  The LABS focus on long-term, sustainable and affordable solutions." The link points to one recent article.  

DEMOCRACYNOW.ORG - A RELIABLE NEWS SOURCE
https://www.democracynow.org/
This site was recommended to me as a "trust worthy" news source (as opposed to the mainstream media).

DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL COMMITTEE
https://democrats.org/
The Democratic National Committee is committed to electing Democrats from everywhere. 

DISTRICTr IS A FREE, PUBLIC WEB TOOL FOR DISTRICTING AND COMMUNITY IDENTIFICATION, BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE MGGG REDISTRICTING LAB.
https://districtr.org/
From the website: "The goal of DistrictR is to put the tools of redistricting in the hands of the public, with an emphasis on meeting the needs of civil rights organizations, community groups, and redistricting commissions."  The website is a tool for drawing district maps. Browse the site to learn what's available and how it can be used.

ED TECH AND THE CIRCUS OF UN-REASON - HOW TO RESPOND POST 2016 AMERICA
https://via.hypothes.is/https://helenbeetham.com/2016/11/14/ed-tech-and-the-circus-of-unreason/
This 2016 article contains many links to other articles that reflect on a 2017 America with Donald Trump as President.  While it invites educators to reflect on their roles, and the ways they interact, it really is an invitation to anyone concerned with the future of civil liberties, democracy, the environment, etc.  The article is linked to an annotation tool called Hypothes.is, which enabled anyone to add their own comments and join the discussion.  That's one of the reasons I've posted it to this section of the Tutor/Mentor web library.

EMPOWERING AMERICAN WORKERS AND RAISING WAGES - COMMUNICATED USING KUMU.IO
https://elizabethwarren.com/plans/empowering-american-workers
https://edythe.kumu.io/empowering-american-workers-and-raising-wages?token=SVmF7ADucV3Lz9Fw
Senator Elizabeth Warren posted this "Empowering American Workers and Raising Wages" presentation on her website when she ran for President in 2016.  It goes into great detail.  The first link goes to the presentation on her website. The second goes to a visualization, using KUMU.io, that outlines the components of this plan.  It's a great example of what leaders might do to communicate complex ideas.

FAIR VOTE - AIMS FOR RANKED CHOICE VOTING (RCV) 
https://fairvote.org/#mce_temp_url#
The Fair Vote strategy says "In 2020 FairVote invested in a strategic planning process to define our long-term goals, theory of change and  unique roles within the electoral reform ecosystem.  Our long-term goals are to enact ranked choice voting (RCV) for all federal elections and the proportional form of RCV for U.S. House elections, as embodied by the Fair Representation Act, by 2030."  Browse the site and see how this would affect ever state.


FIND MY REPS - RESOURCE FOR FINDING WHO REPRESENTS YOU
https://myreps.datamade.us/
Enter your address and the tool will build a list of local, state and federal representatives, along with contact information.

FIXING OUR BROKEN POLITICAL SYSTEM (USA)
https://www.salon.com/2020/06/06/yes-our-political-system-is-badly-broken-but-it-doesnt-have-to-be-this-way/
This June 2020 article is titled:  "Yes, our political system is badly broken. But it doesn't have to be this way."  The writers point out reasons the current system fails to benefit citizens and offers suggestions of needed change. Applies to 2022 and future elections.

FIXING US INFRASTRUCTURE - STATE-BY-STATE PRIORITIES
https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/infrastructure/g2932/50-states-infrastructure/
This PopularMechanics.com 2017 article should be a 'must read' resource for anyone concerned with what's happening in America. The issues are still priorities in 2022. 

FOLLOW THE LEADERS. CONNECTING THE DOTS
http://tutormentor.blogspot.com/2015/09/follow-leaders-connecting-dots.html
This is a Tutor/Mentor Institute, LLC blog article that focuses on connecting the ideas and web sites of different progressive groups and leaders in central spaces where others can learn and form their own involvement.  Look at the comment section of the blog where I add links to new articles as I find them.

FRAMEWORKS INSTITUTE - CHANGING CONVERSATION ON SOCIAL ISSUES
https://www.frameworksinstitute.org/
From the web site: "Mission is to: advance the nonprofit sector's communications capacity by identifying, translating, and modeling relevant scholarly research to frame the public discourse on social problems."  Visit the "learn to frame" section of the web site learn "to use communications to build public understanding, cultivate public will, and move policy." 

GET INFORMED ON PROGRESSIVE ISSUES - THE SANDERS INSTITUTE
https://www.sandersinstitute.org/
From the web site: "The mission of the Sanders Institute is to revitalize democracy by actively engaging individuals, organizations, and the media in the pursuit of progressive solutions to economic, environmental, racial, and social justice issues."  Visit the Issues tab and do deeper learning around each category.

GUIDE FOR USING LANGUAGE EFFECTIVELY IN SOCIAL ACTIVISM
https://s3.amazonaws.com/s3.sumofus.org/images/SUMOFUS_PROGRESSIVE-STYLEGUIDE.pdf
This resource guide is titled "A Progressive's Style Guide". Part of the introduction reads "A Progressive’s Style Guide is explicitly multi-voiced and is created with the following commitments. 1) We combat discriminatory language. 2) We seek advice or more information when we’re unsure. 3) When writing, speaking, or using images, we aim to use examples that reflect a broad range of identities and perspectives."  If you're engaged in on-line communications, this is a resource you should spend time getting to know.

HERE’S THE REASON GOVERNMENT CAN’T VOTE IN THE INTEREST OF THE PEOPLE.
https://ebonstorm.wordpress.com/2012/07/18/heres-the-reason-government-cant-vote-in-the-interest-of-the-people/
This is a 2012 article on A Matter of Scale - Science, Technology, Social Commentary blog. In this article writer shows how big business and US government overlap. This continues to be major problem.

HOW MEMBERS OF HOUSE AND SENATE VOTED ON GUN LEGISLATION (NPR)
https://www.npr.org/2018/02/19/566731477/chart-how-have-your-members-of-congress-voted-on-gun-bills
This article includes information and charts showing how elected leaders in all 50 states have voted on gun legislation over past 30 years or longer. 

HOW TO SUSTAIN CURRENT LEVEL OF POLITICAL RESISTANCE FOR LONG TERM
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/can_we_sustain_it
This Stanford Social Innovation Review (SSIR) article offers tips for sustaining the current level of political involved over the long term.

HOW WE RISE: POLICY SOLUTIONS TO UPEND STRUCTURAL RACISM
https://www.brookings.edu/blog/how-we-rise/
The Brookings Institute launched this new web site in June 2020 and a blog project "focused on policy solutions to upend structural racism and create a more equitable society for all."

ILLINOIS CIVICS HUB
https://www.illinoiscivics.org/
From the web site: "The Illinois Civic Mission Coalition (ICMC) is a broad, non-partisan consortium which includes educators, administrators, students, universities, funders, elected officials, policymakers and representatives from the private and non-profit sectors. Formed in 2004 by the Constitutional Rights Foundation Chicago, the ICMC is part of the Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools, a national initiative to restore a core purpose of education to prepare America's youngest citizens to be informed and active participants in our democracy."

ILLINOIS COALITION FOR IMMIGRANT AND REFUGEE RIGHTS
https://www.icirr.org/about
From the web site: "ICIRR is dedicated to promoting the rights of immigrants and refugees to full and equal participation in the civic, cultural, social, and political life of our diverse society.  In partnership with our member organizations, the Coalition educates and organizes immigrant and refugee communities to assert their rights; promotes citizenship and civic participation; monitors, analyzes, and advocates on immigrant-related issues; and, informs the general public about the contributions of immigrants and refugees."


LEARN TO EVALUATE WHAT YOU ARE READING - ARTICLE / GRAPHIC
https://adfontesmedia.com/the-chart-version-3-0-what-exactly-are-we-reading/
This article looks at the wide range of media available to the public and rates them as left (liberal) or right (conservative) or in the middle. Useful tool to understand the bias present in what you are reading.

MAKING THE CASE FOR IMPEACHMENT OF POTUS45-47–  
https://www.needtoimpeach.com/impeachable-offenses/
This web site was built during the first term of Donald Trump. It has three sections. One is a list of impeachable offenses. The second includes a list of criminal activity within the Potus45 administration and family. The third includes motivational and informational videos. Use this site to do your own research. Potus45 was impeached in early 2020 and again in January 2021. He was not convicted by the Senate either time. Now he's back in office again. Maybe this list will be useful.

MIND MAP OF GLOBAL CIVILIZATION'S COLLAPSE
https://laetusinpraesens.org/musings/nothing.php
This site provides a unique set of visualizations of "Why Nothing is Happening in Response to Global Challenges " along with an extensive library of resources related to the maps. 

MORE RECOMMENDED READING ON RACE / POVERTY - LIST ON DROP BOX
click  here
In 2017 I started building a list of articles about the 45th President of the US and root causes of racism, poverty and inequality. Take a look.

NATIONAL POPULAR VOTE INTERSTATE COMPACT
https://www.nationalpopularvote.com/written-explanation
https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/national-popular-vote-explained
This agreement among the states (if it is reached) will assure that whichever candidate wins the popular vote in a Presidential election will be the winner.  Open this link and learn more.

NEW AMERICAN ECONOMY - IMMIGRATION REFORM RESOURCE
https://www.newamericaneconomy.org/
From the website: "New American Economy is a bipartisan research and advocacy organization fighting for smart federal, state, and local immigration policies that help grow our economy and create jobs for all Americans."  This is a robust information base; Browse the Map the Impact section to find data for each state and metro area.

NEWS FROM LEFT, CENTER, RIGHT - WHICH ARE YOU READING?
http://zenpundit.com/?p=53983
This article on the Zenpundit web site includes three charts that classify various media outlets as far left/right "garbage" or more to the center, and reliable.  It's an interesting article and may help some decide where they want to go for their news. 

NEXTGEN AMERICA - A BROADER PLAN OF RESISTANCE
https://nextgenamerica.org/
From the web site: "Since 2013, we’ve worked to prevent damage to our climate by transitioning to a clean energy economy based on equality, inclusion, and a shared and sustainable prosperity. Now, the values that drive our work on climate are under increased and unprecedented attack. We’re proud to step up the fight for immigrant rights, affordable health care, and core American values — as NextGen America."

OPEN DEBATE COALITION - ENGAGE MORE PEOPLE
http://opendebatecoalition.com/about/
The Open Debate process is described in this statement: "In the Open Debate format, regular voters across the nation submit and vote on questions on an online platform for several weeks in advance of the televised event. For the live debate, moderators choose from among the questions that received the most votes – asking follow-up questions along the way."  Browse this web site to learn more about this.

OPEN PRIMARIES - GIVE EVERYONE A RIGHT TO VOTE
https://www.openprimaries.org/
From the website: "The mission of Open Primaries is to advocate for open and nonpartisan primary systems, counter efforts to impose closed primaries, educate voters and policymakers, advance litigation, train spokespeople, conduct and support research, and participate in the building of local, state and national open primaries coalitions."

OPEN SECRETS - FOLLOWING THE MONEY IN POLITICS
https://www.opensecrets.org/
From the website: "Nonpartisan, independent and nonprofit, OpenSecrets is the nation's premier research group tracking money in US politics and its effect on elections and public policy."

OUR COMMON PURPOSE - REINVENTING AMERICAN DEMOCRACY FOR THE 21ST CENTURY
https://www.amacad.org/ourcommonpurpose
From the website: "This project of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences was launched in 2018 to explore how best to respond to the weaknesses and vulnerabilities in our political an civic life and to enable more Americans to participate as effective citizens in a diverse 21st-century democracy."

POLICE VIOLENCE VIDEOS ON TWITTER - AGGREGATED ON ONE LIST
https://www.vice.com/en/article/7kpbmy/police-violence-at-protests-is-undeniable-all-the-videos-are-right-here
This link points to a blog article describing how two activists are aggregating links to videos showing police violence that have been posted to Twitter. The link to a Google spreadsheet is included in the article. This aggregated information supports the work of protesters and those seeking to create different structures for community well-being. 

POLICY SOLUTIONS TO END POLICE VIOLENCE IN AMERICA
https://nixthe6.org/
From the website: "#NixThe6 is a project of Campaign Zero, a national platform of data-driven policy solutions to end police violence in America. The project focuses on six ways police unions obstruct, delay or defeat local efforts to hold police accountable and reimagine public safety."

POLICYED - SEEKS TO PROVIDE INFORMATION ABOUT PUBLIC POLICY
https://www.policyed.org/
From the web site: This Initiative at the Stanford University Hoover Institute is "Seeking to become the foremost source of policy knowledge, wisdom, and insights educating Americans in Public Policy. The initiative seeks to:
* Equip Americans with accurate facts and information, as well as a discerning analytical perspective, so they can better perform their civic duties, hold their elected leaders accountable, and “secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity.”
* Provide political leaders with reliable knowledge and analysis—tools with which they might assess alternatives in the shaping and execution of public policy."

POOR PEOPLE'S CAMPAIGN
https://www.poorpeoplescampaign.org/about/our-demands/
From the web site: "The Poor People's Campaign is a national call (started in 2016) for a moral revival to challenge the evils of systemic racism, poverty, the war economy, ecological devastation, and the nation's distorted morality."


PROTECT DEMOCRACY: "TOWARDS PROORTIONAL REPRESENTATION FOR THE U.S. HOUSE" - MARCH 2023 ARTICLE
https://protectdemocracy.org/work/proportional-representation-uniform-congressional-district-act/
This article suggest returning to a pre 1967 America where U.S. House members were elected via a "proportional representation system in which multiple winners secure legislative seats in rough proportion to the votes they receive."  


RANKED-CHOICE VOTING - LEARN ABOUT IT
https://ballotpedia.org/Ranked-choice_voting_(RCV)
From the website: "A ranked-choice voting system (RCV) is an electoral system in which voters rank candidates by preference on their ballots.  If a candidate wins a majority of first-preference votes, he or she is declared the winner.  If no candidate wins a majority of the first-preference votes, the candidate with the fewest first-preference votes is eliminated." read more

REALIZING A MULTIRACIAL DEMOCRACY FOR ALL - SSIR SERIES (2024)
https://ssir.org/realizing-a-multiracial-democracy-for-all
This link points to a series of Policy Link essays on the Stanford Social Innovation Review (SSIR).  It starts with "Imagine a nation that values the humanity of everyone living in it. One where all people can participate, thrive, and shape their own futures. This flourishing multiracial democracy in the United States is ours to create."  The five articles in the series outline the challenges we face and propose specific short and long-term solutions.  

RECLAIM THE AMERICAN DREAM: IT'S UP TO US
https://reclaimtheamericandream.org/
This is "an informational gateway aimed at helping people who are upset about America today to get engaged in fixing our democracy and making our economy fairer at the local level, where people power still has clout."

RESOURCES ABOUT NAVIGATING THE MIS- & DISINFORMATION LANDSCAPE
https://airtable.com/shr9qMFI4cOlAmgiN/tbl4gylFjDacSOXL6
This link points to a curated set of vetted resources about navigating the mis- & disinformation landscape in preparation for the November 2020 election and beyond.

RESOURCES REGARDING ONLINE HARRASSMENT, DEFAMATION, LIBEL AND CYBER STALKING
https://www.coyotebroad.com/work/harass.shtml
This page on the Jayne Cravens website is an extensive resource for anyone who may become a target of online harassment, based on what you post on the Internet. 

RESULTS.ORG - MULTIPLY IMPACT THROUGH THE ENORMOUS POWER OF ADVOCACY
https://results.org/who-we-are/
From the web site: "RESULTS is a movement of passionate, committed everyday people. Together they use their voices to influence political decisions that will bring an end to poverty."

RETRO REPORT - INDEPENDENT, NONPROFIT NEWS ORGANIZATION
https://retroreport.org/video-library/?type=Video
From the website: "At a time when misinformation is rampant and there's disagreement over objective facts, our team of award-winning journalists and educators is creating trusted documentary videos and classroom resources. Our work brings a greater understanding of current events, fights misinformation and encourages inquiry."

SOCIALIST ECONOMIST - ARTICLES
http://www.socialisteconomist.com/2019/01/the-butcher-washes-his-hands-before.html
From the website; "SE's mission: to analyze the economic system (capitalism) and explore fair, egalitarian, democratic and green alternatives (indeed, some kind of socialism).'  Thoughtful articles such as this one stimulate thinking about why and how we try to create a different future than the one we're in (2020). 

SWINGLEFT.ORG HELPS IDENTIFY SWING DISTRICTS FOR 2026 AND FUTURE ELECTIONS
https://swingleft.org/about
From the web site: "Swing Left is building a lasting culture of grassroots participation in winning elections for the Left by making it as easy as possible for anyone to have maximum impact on the elections that determine the balance of power in our country.”

TALKING ABOUT ECONOMIC JUSTICE - OPPORTUNITY AGENDA
https://www.opportunityagenda.org/explore/resources-publications/talking-about-economic-justice
From the website:  This memo offers communications guidance for talking about anti-poverty initiatives, and economic equality generally, with a range of audiences. It draws on available opinion research, practical experience, and communications principles." 

THE LONGVIEW INSTITUTE - THINK ABOUT OLD PROBLEMS IN NEW WAYS
http://www.longviewinstitute.org/aboutus/
From the web site: "The mission of the Longview Institute is to articulate and promote a vision of our nation based on a moral economy and a just society. Our belief in individual liberty, accompanied by collective responsibility, is deeply rooted in the highest ideals of the American progressive tradition. Working with others, we seek to influence Americans to think about old problems in new ways and to change the terms of debate. Our ultimate goal is to rethink and promote public policy that will lead to an America admired for its moral economy, its personal freedom, and its social and economic justice."

THE MOVEMENT ACTION PLAN: A STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK DESCRIBING THE EIGHT STAGES OF SUCCESSFUL SOCIAL MOVEMENTS
https://via.hypothes.is/http://historyisaweapon.com/defcon1/moyermap.html
This article was written by Bill Moyers in 1987 and describes an 8 stage strategy to guide social movement growth and ultimate success. The steps remain as relevant today as they were then, although the tools have dramatically changed. 

THE MOVEMENT FOR BLACK LIVES MATTER
https://blacklivesmatter.com/
From the web site: "Black Lives Matter Foundation, Inc is a global organization in the US, UK, and Canada, whose mission is to eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes. By combating and countering acts of violence, creating space for Black imagination and innovation, and centering Black joy, we are winning immediate improvements in our lives."

THE OTHER 98 - MOVEMENT BUILDING TO TAKE BACK AMERICA
https://other98.com/mission/
From the web site: "The mission of Other 98% is simple but bold: to be a storytelling force that stirs people to action. We challenge the stranglehold of corporate power by creating our own educational tools and crafting our own narrative, one that sparks the cultural shift we need to build new systems for a healthy and vibrant new world."

THE PROPAGANDIST' PLAYBOOK: HOW CONSERVATIVE ELITES MANIPULATE SEARCH AND THREATEN DEMOCRACY - 2022 BOOK
https://www.amazon.com/Propagandists-Playbook-Conservative-Manipulate-Democracy/dp/0300248946
This book by Francesca Bolla Tripodi "peels back the layers of the right-wing media manipulation machine to reveal why its strategies are so effective and pervasive."  Find it on Amazon.com


THE STATE OF LOCAL NEWS - 2022 REPORT 
https://localnewsinitiative.northwestern.edu/research/state-of-local-news/report/
This report by Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communication documents the state of local news in the USA post-COVID-19, focusing on the health of both local newspapers and digital sites.

THE WEEKLY LISTS - DOCUMENTS US MOVEMENT TOWARD AUTHORITARIANISM (ENDED 1/21/2021)
https://theweeklylist.org/weekly-list/
From the web site: "On a weekly basis, the List tracked specific news stories representing eroding norms under the current regime. Taken together, they revealed a nation pushed towards authoritarianism, the wielding of unchecked governmental authority by one person or group at the expense of the freedom of those who oppose them." This project ended with the inauguration of Joe Biden in January 2021. The site is now an archive....and a warning.

VOTING AND ELECTIONS RESOURCE FROM U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
https://www.justice.gov/voting/voting-rights
This site has been updated for 2024 and is a comprehensive resource about voting rights and elections in the U.S.A.

WHAT IS "NEOLIBERALISM" - A DEFINITION
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2016/apr/15/neoliberalism-ideology-problem-george-monbiot
As the wealthy class grows and the poor grow poorer, America and the world are becoming divided along political, social and economic lines. This link provides a definition, possibly biased, of what 'Neoliberalism' is, and its affect on society.

WHO LEADS? IS WEB SITE FOCUSING ON POLITICAL POWER IN US
https://wholeads.us/
This site has a powerful animation and other information showing how political leadership in the US is dominated by White men.  Useful for understanding challenges.

WHY DEMOCRATS KEEP LOOSING RURAL VOTERS - ARTICLE
https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2020/12/01/democrats-rural-vote-wisconsin-441458
This Opinion article in Political offers a vision for work Democrats need to do in 2021 and beyond to rebuild rural America and recapture the trust of rural voters. 

WHY IS INEQUALITY SO STICKY? THE POLITICAL OBSTACLES TO A FAIRER ECONOMY - 2024 ARTICLE
https://frompoverty.oxfam.org.uk/why-is-inequality-so-sticky-the-political-obstacles-to-a-fairer-economy/
This Poverty to Power article "looks at the politics of inequality and how and why governance systems do - or more often don't - introduce new policies to address income and wealth distribution."  

WORKING FAMILIES PARTY - PUT FAMILIES FIRST IN GOV'T POLICY
https://workingfamilies.org/
From the web site: "Working Families is fighting for a brighter future for America. One where the economy works for everyone, not just the wealthy and well-connected. One where politicians are accountable to working people, instead of Wall Street lobbyists and corporate CEOs. One where all of us, no matter where we come from, can find a good job, get healthcare when we need it, afford a home, send our kids to good schools, and have a secure retirement.

YOUNG INVINCIBLES - AMPLIFY THE VOICES OF YOUNG ADULTS IN THE POLITICAL PROCESS
https://younginvincibles.org/our-story/
From the web site: "Young Invincibles was founded by a group of students in the summer of 2009, motivated by the recognition that young people’s voices were not being heard in the debate over health care reform. 

In the years since, YI has expanded from a group run out of a school cafeteria to a national organization with offices across the country. We take on issues related to health care, higher education, and economic security. We are committed to expanding economic opportunity for young adults ages 18 to 34 and making sure that our perspective is heard wherever decisions about our collective future are being made. "