Without computer skills, a young person’s options in our increasingly digital age is more than limited - it’s almost nonexistent. That’s where Alliance for Digital Equality steps in. ADE is a non-profit organization based in Atlanta geared toward closing the digital divide and providing equal access to computers and technology to everyone.

”Our mission is to ensure equal access for new technology inflows into urban communities and to rural communities, particularly as it relates to African-American consumers and Hispanic consumers,” says Julius Hollis, chairman of the ADE.

“In the last 15 years since 1993, African-American and Hispanic consumers have driven the expansion of high-speed broadband. We’ve driven this digital revolution that is now upon us in this great country we love so much," Hollis said. "This digital revolution is global in nature; it is in its embryonic stages, and it will have a socio-economic impact of 500 billion dollars, and create 3 million new jobs over the next five years.”

With those kinds of numbers, it’s clear that everyone, regardless of background or locale, should have the same opportunity to be involved in the digital space. Since it’s inception in 2007, ADE has created digital councils in seven major cities, including Miami, Atlanta, Detroit and Chicago. These councils explore the importance of access to new media among various communities.

During Super Bowl Weekend, the ADE is honoring several people who are working diligently to improve their communities and the lives of those around them. "The Tom Joyner Morning Show's" own Tom Joyner is one of the honorees, and he’s joined by athlete/philanthropist Alonzo Mourning, BET head Debra Lee, recording artists Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Congressman and Majority Whip James T. Clyburn (D-S.C.) and retired Coca-Cola executive Vickie Palmer.  The event will take place at Mia at Biscayne this Friday night on the eve of Super Bowl XLIV.
 
“I am extremely proud and honored to be able to recognize these individuals during our 17th Annual Pre-Super Bowl celebration. It is men and women like Congressman Clyburn, Mr. Joyner, Ms. Lee, Mr. Mourning, Ms. Palmer and Mr. & Mrs. Estefan that lift up the African-American and Hispanic communities with their tireless philanthropic efforts,” Hollis says.

In conjunction with this event, the ADE will donate 150 computers to Miami area schools and to Alonzo Mourning Charities.

For more information on ADE or how to get involved with their various initiatives, please visit www.alliancefordigitalequality.org.

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