Technology can transform people’s lives in ways never thought possible. In a relatively short space of time, our technology “norms” have changed from dial-up internet to high-speed Wi-Fi, from letters sent through the mail to smartphones around the world. And now, XR, or extended reality, is transforming every industry around the world.
But access to cutting-edge technology depends on geographic location and accessibility. Growing up on the Navajo Reservation in rural New Mexico, technological innovation tends to happen at a slower pace.
New Mexico is home to 23 federally recognized Indian tribes. Many of these communities live on tribal lands, honoring ancestral traditions and building thriving communities for future generations.
Satellite internet and broadband are becoming more accessible on reservations, but there is much room for progress. As policymakers consider new technology legislation, it is important to approach additional regulations carefully, taking into account underserved and underconnected communities.
As a child, I watched my grandparents, whose first language was Diné Bizaad, try to enjoy television programs that were only broadcast in English.
In addition to historically facing systemic disadvantage, Native communities have been left out of discussions about expanding broadband access, with 18 percent of Native Americans lacking internet access compared to just 4 percent of non-tribal people.
These experiences helped shape my lifelong mission to promote the inclusion of Indigenous language and culture through Indigenous storytelling in contemporary media. I founded Glittering World Girl, a female-led multimedia company dedicated to embracing Navajo language and cultural revitalization through XR technology.
This new age of technology is democratizing accessibility for people all over the world, and New Mexico has an opportunity to be part of that discussion. With greater access to technology, businesses like mine can help ensure New Mexico is an inclusive, culturally rich place in a modern way.
XR technology is being rapidly adopted across all industries, and policymakers have an opportunity to play a positive role in that story by ensuring it is available to all, including Indigenous communities, from the very beginning.
XR technology allows New Mexico communities to better understand each other through immersive, relatable storytelling and keep pace with socio-technical advances that are changing the world.
As policymakers continue to pass technology-related bills, I urge them to consider the unique needs of Native American communities and ensure they have equal access to technology innovations that equip them with the knowledge and skills to succeed and positively impact New Mexico.
Akilah Martinez is the founder of Glittering World Girl, Diné, XR developer, and UNM alumna.
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