Net Neutrality

Question and Answers

Q:
What is Net Neutrality?
A: Net Neutrality is the basic principle that prohibits internet service providers like AT&T, Comcast and Verizon from speeding up, slowing down or blocking any content, applications or websites you want to use. Net Neutrality is the way the internet has always worked. But when left to their own devices, these companies have violated people’s basic online rights.
Q:
Didn’t we win this fight already?
A: Yes. After a decade-long battle over the future of the internet, the Obama FCC passed Net Neutrality rules using the legal foundation of a law called Title II, giving internet users the strongest protections possible. But the Trump FCC later repealed those rules. With a new administration in power, we have a chance to restore Net Neutrality under Title II of the Communications Act. This crucial law gives the FCC the authority it needs to safeguard the open internet. Title II also gives the agency the authority to protect consumers from ISP abuses and ensure all people can get connected at just and reasonable rates.
Q:
Why is this a racial justice issue?
A: The open internet allows people of color to tell their own stories and organize for racial justice. When activists are able to turn out thousands of people in the streets at a moment’s notice, it’s because ISPs aren’t allowed to block their messages or websites. The open internet allows people of color, immigrants and other impacted communities to bypass traditional media gatekeepers. Without Net Neutrality, ISPs could block speech and prevent dissident voices from speaking freely online. Without Net Neutrality, people of color would lose a vital platform.