The Internet is a wonderful thing that America has grown to know and love. Millions of Americans utilize the Internet for all sorts of things every day, whether it be for educational purposes, social media, or entertainment. If this generation had to go without access to the Internet, the people would be in a frenzy. However, due to certain events unfolding in the government right now, this future may well be on its way to becoming a reality.
Imagine one morning you wake up and check your phone as usual. Before you start your day, you typically browse all your favorite websites such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, etc. Nothing can get you more prepared for the day than checking up on what you missed while you were asleep. However, when you go to the first site, a message comes up announcing you need to pay for certain packages to visit particular sites rather than paying a set price for Internet access. This idea sounds outlandish and insane, but the FCC is trying to revoke Net Neutrality, an act that provides fair Internet for all without corporations infringing on your usage for their own corporate greed.
The FCC'S decision infringes on the consumer's usage of a resource that should be available and affordable to all. With the revoking of Net Neutrality, companies such as Verizon, Comcast, and AT&T would be able to create bundles that included access to select sites, charging whatever price they deem "suitable" for it. This includes charging bundles if you need to visit other sites that are not on that plan. For example, if you buy a bundle that includes Facebook, Twitter, and other sites, but doesn't include a site like Instagram that you love, you would have to pay more for access to that other site.
To make it simple: This decision would be like having to pay to eat every Skittle in a bag instead of paying for the whole bag. It's completely egregious for the Chairman of the FCC, Ajit Pai, to push an agenda that feeds off the millions of consumers who use the Internet. Money is already an unfairly distributed and touchy issue in the United States, and this decision would rip bigger holes in the pockets of many.
Unsure how to make sure your voice is heard? Unsure where to start to show you oppose this repeal? Text 504-09 RESIST to send a letter to your local Congressperson or Senator. Call the FCC at 2-2-418-1000, state your name and ZIP code, and state your opposition to the revoking of the act. Sign an online petition stating you stand with Net Neutrality. Get out there and make your voice loud and heard -- as an American, your vote counts. Make sure millions of Americans' access to fair Internet is protected.
Fight to save Net Neutrality before it's too late, and always remember your voice on issues matters!