Aurora Recognized As National Digital Inclusion Trailblazer

AURORA, IL — Aurora was recognized as a 2024 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer for its efforts to "close the digital divide."

The city is one of 60 municipal, county and regional governments nationwide to be honored by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance.

City officials said digital inclusion, meaning residents have access to affordable high-speed internet, devices and digital skills training, is "essential not only to participate in today's world but also to finding greater opportunities to thrive."

"In the past decade, we've seen local governments step into the important role of building digital inclusion ecosystems, where organizations that provide services can connect and thrive," NDIA Executive Director Angela Siefer said in a statement. "NDIA's Digital Inclusion Trailblazers celebrates these critical efforts to bring digital opportunities to all residents."

Chief Information Officer Michael Pegues shared the following statement about the honor:

"As a passionate and unapologetic advocate for digital inclusion, I stand firmly by the belief that every resident of the City of Aurora deserves the keys to the digital world. Connectivity isn't merely a luxury — it's a vital lifeline that enables growth, fosters opportunity, and empowers our community. Inspired by Mayor Richard Irvin's visionary leadership and with the unwavering support of our City Council, we are executing transformative initiatives like the Aurora STEAM Academy and the No Child Left Offline initiative. Together, we are ensuring that everyone in Aurora has the chance to thrive in this connected age."