The digital divide in Canada: a social justice issue

In2026, owning a connected computer is no longer a luxury : it is a prerequisitefor full participation in society and the economy. Yet thousands of Canadians remain on the wrong side of the digital divide, held back by a lack offinancial resources, digital skills, or adequate infrastructure.

What is the digital divide in Canada?

The digital divide refers to the gap between people who have reliable access to digital technologies and theinternet, and those who do not. In Canada, this gap disproportionately affects:

• Indigenous communities, particularly in rural and northern regions;
• low-income families in urban centres;
• newcomers and recent immigrants;
• seniors and people with limited digital literacy;
• remote communities underserved by  broadband infrastructure.

Without a working device and astable internet connection, access to employment, education, healthcare, and government services becomes severely limited.

Why digital access is a matter of social justice

Digital inclusion is not a luxury it is a condition for equal opportunity. A child without a computer at homefalls behind in school. An adult without internet access struggles to find ajob, complete government paperwork, or consult a doctor via telehealth.

The digital divide does not createinequality on its own it amplifies inequalities that already exist. That is why organizations like CFSC-OPEC and its Computers for Success (CFS) program have spent over 30 years working to close that gap,redistributing refurbished devices to vulnerable populations across Canada.

How the CFS program makes a difference

CFS relies on a national network of provincial and territorial affiliates and partners, with one clear goal: reach every person in need, wherever they are in Canada. So far, the program has refurbished and redistributed over 2.2 million devices thus diverting +12 tonnes from landfills.

Each device redistributed opens areal door:

• landing a first job using digital tools;
• completing a degree or online training program;
• accessing health services and social support online;
• staying connected with family and community.

It is much more than a computer it is a gateway to full participation in society.

What you can do to help close the digital divide

The digital divide is notinevitable. It is the result of policy choices and it can be correctedthrough collective, deliberate action.

Learn more, get involved, or donate at cfsc-opec.org.

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