By Ken Barnes, CEO of Greater Sacramento Urban League
At the Greater Sacramento Urban League, our mission is to empower Black and other historically marginalized people throughout the region in securing economic self-reliance, educational fulfillment, social justice, and civil rights while living well, being well, and thriving.
In today’s economy, that mission depends on digital access, because access is opportunity.
Broadband is no longer a luxury, it is the foundation for education, entrepreneurship, and upward mobility. Verizon’s proposed acquisition of Frontier’s California network represents a vital step toward bridging the digital divide and ensuring all Californians have access to reliable broadband.
For too long, many urban and rural communities have suffered from outdated infrastructure and limited investment. That lack of access has deepened inequality, isolating families and small businesses from the digital tools they need to thrive.
The Verizon–Frontier transaction promises to change that, as they bring a proven track record of innovation, investment, and reliability. From 5G deployment to fiber expansion, Verizon has proven its commitment to building infrastructure which drives growth.
Digital inclusion has long been a cornerstone of GSUL’s agenda. This transaction aligns with that goal by enabling more households and small businesses, particularly those in communities of color, to benefit from expanded broadband access. Improved connectivity doesn’t just mean faster internet, it means students can learn without disruption, job seekers can access remote work, and small-business owners can reach customers beyond their zip codes.
Verizon’s scale and investment capacity can make these opportunities real for Californians who have been left behind by outdated networks.
Equally important is Verizon’s deep commitment to workforce development, one of the core missions of GSUL. Their long-standing partnerships with businesses, as well as its focus on local hiring, translate into meaningful job creation and economic mobility right here in California. As regulators evaluate this transaction, they should recognize the opportunity to not only modernize infrastructure but also expand economic mobility and opportunity for underrepresented communities.
Verizon has the financial strength and technical expertise to accelerate fiber upgrades, improve service quality, and support California’s digital inclusion goals without relying on public funds. That’s the kind of partnership California needs to close the digital divide once and for all.
