Bishop Wester: “Protect the Internet…”

Today at the USCCB blog, it’s awesome to see an editorial by Bishop John C. Wester of Salt Lake City arguing against the FCC’s proposed “two tier” system for the Internet:

The Federal Communication Commission’s recent interest in creating a “two-tiered” Internet will impair for many Americans this basic need – fast, reliable access to all Internet content. Instead of adopting rules that permit the wealthiest companies to purchase the best service, theFCC should insist on fair treatment for everyone no matter our income.

Community-serving organizations – such as the church – should not be treated as secondary “customers” in this digital environment. The content and connections we provide to people are more important than entertainment content — such as movies and television shows — even though we don’t have the resources to compete with entertainment companies to pay more to the Internet providers.

 Nonprofits rely on the Internet to strengthen their human networks. They use digital platforms to raise money, to mobilize advocacy work, to alert people of dangerous situations, to connect loved ones, to educate children and adults and to provide charitable and humanitarian aid.

Read the entire article here.