This Petition Update is by Nehemiah Pitts III, Senior Director of Public Affairs & Strategic Partnerships, Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTMHQ:
Dear Supporters,
As we approach the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on January 20, 2025, we are reminded of his profound vision of equality, justice, and opportunity for all. Dr. King’s dream of equal access to resources is directly aligned with the mission of the Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTMHQ): to bridge the Digital Divide, empower underserved communities, and create pathways to economic opportunity through technology.
The 89th session of the Texas Legislature gavels in today! The Texas Technology for All campaign has made great strides, but there is more work to be done. With over 2 million Texas households lacking high-speed internet and 4.1 million Texans living in poverty, achieving equal access to technology is essential to advancing Dr. King’s vision of justice and inclusion.
Key 2024 Milestones:
🤝 NTIA Digital Equity Coalition: Partnered regionally to create sustainable solutions for Central Texans.
🌐 Strategic Partnerships: Built coalitions to align public policy with community needs and prepare Texans for the future of work.
2025 Immediate Goals:
1️⃣ 2,500+ Signatures: Let’s close out this petition to strengthen our collective voice for digital equity.
2️⃣ Engage Decision-Makers: Launch targeted advocacy to city, county, and state leaders for:
- Representation on the Broadband Development Council to amplify underrepresented voices.
- Collaboration with Operation Connectivity to ensure reliable internet for Texas’s 5.5 million public school students.
- Investment in community-driven initiatives like Austin’s Equity Action Budget to address systemic inequities.
Why This Matters:
Just as Dr. King fought to dismantle barriers to opportunity, AUTMHQ works to ensure that technology is not a privilege but a right for all. By advocating for broadband access, workforce training, and community-driven solutions, we’re continuing his legacy of equity and inclusion.
How You Can Help:
Dr. King taught us that change comes when we unite with purpose. Sign and share this petition, and join us in building a connected Texas where everyone has the tools to thrive.
Together, we can honor Dr. King’s dream and make it a reality for future generations.
In solidarity,
Nehemiah Pitts III
Senior Director of Public Affairs & Strategic Partnerships
Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTMHQ)
Sign and Share the Texas Technology for All petition today!