Media Contact: 
Diane Holland
Diane.Holland@fcc.gov
(202) 418-2500

For Immediate Release

COMMISSIONER STARKS ANNOUNCES 
DIGITAL OPPORTUNITY EQUITY RECOGNITION PROGRAM

WASHINGTON, June 8, 2020—FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks has created the Digital Opportunity Equity Recognition (DOER) Program to commend organizations, institutions, companies and individuals who, through their actions and responses to the COVID-19 crisis, have helped to make quality affordable broadband service available to unserved or underserved communities.  Commissioner Starks today calls for nominations of candidates that demonstrate a dedication to public service and community advancement by providing or supporting access to high-speed broadband; creating or advancing affordable options for connectivity to individuals and communities especially those most impacted by the COVID-19 crisis; leveraging the use of broadband to improve healthcare, education, public safety, civic engagement, or other essential services; or promoting digital education and literacy.  Nominations for the first round of recognitions should be submitted using the attached form to DOERProgram@fcc.gov by July 8, 2020.

The following statement may be attributed to Commissioner Starks: 

“The COVID-19 crisis has changed so much of how we go about our daily lives in ways no one could have foreseen, and many have stepped up to ensure that no one gets left behind because they lack broadband connectivity.  I am excited to introduce the DOER Program as a way to recognize and applaud those going above and beyond to help connect all Americans to reliable, equitable and affordable broadband services.  The Advisory Board members I have assembled to help me select recipients worthy of recognition represent diverse sectors and are themselves fully engaged in the fight for digital opportunity and equity.  I am thankful for their perspectives and judgment as we work to make this program a meaningful endeavor.”

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Office of Commissioner Geoffrey Starks: (202) 418-2500 
ASL Videophone: (844) 432-2275
TTY: (888) 835-5322
Twitter: @GeoffreyStarks 
www.fcc.gov/about/leadership/geoffrey-starks

This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).