2001 Conference Resolution

WHEREAS, the Internet has been hailed as the most democratic and participatory medium in history, based on principals of openness and diversity; and

WHEREAS, the National Organization for Women (NOW) recognizes the importance of the Internet and other communications media in its work, as well as its function as a vital organizing and communications tool for feminists; and

WHEREAS, these communications technologies are rapidly changing and converging as we advance in the digital age; and

WHEREAS, the very openness and diversity of the Internet as we know it is under threat by those who own and control other forms of mass media; and

WHEREAS, as digital platforms (Internet, television, cable, telephone) converge into a single delivery platform know as broadband, ownership of those platforms and content also converges, serving to reinforce the power of already enormous companies; and

WHEREAS, it is largely speculated that digital cable will become the dominant means of broadband delivery of these services and content; and

WHEREAS, cable companies operate in municipal franchises that are virtual monopolies, and cable rates have risen at a rate 3 times that of inflation since being recently deregulated, casting doubt on the notion that "competition" can successfully regulate the market; and

WHEREAS, these corporations have developed enormous influence over all levels of government and have successfully eroded regulatory standards and limits placed on their power while the public pays little attention; and

WHEREAS, most people still rely on dial-up Internet access and are able to select any Internet Service Provider (ISP) or email program or web browser, broadband operators have opposed "open access" provisions and would force customers to access the Internet through the operator's portal; and

WHEREAS, in what has been referred to as "walled gardens" these portals will direct traffic on the Internet to benefit their operators and their corporate partners, maximizing profits and substituting endless consumer choices for real information and consumer freedom; and

WHEREAS, the battle for the future freedom of the Internet and broadband is currently being fought in Congress and in the courts;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that NOW will stand in support of openness, diversity, and democracy on the Internet and other forms of digital media; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that NOW will take the following actions to be a meaningful and vocal advocate for broadband democracy:

• Empowering the Feminist Communications Task Force and a NOW Action Center staff member to address these issues;
• Applying this information to any future organizational plans for media/technology;
• Educating all members about the critical nature of these issues;
• Initiating or participating in relevant coalitions or campaigns.