Net Neutrality Should Be A Right, Not A Privilege

In mid-December, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) voted to repeal Net Neutrality. This repeal, prompted by FCC chairman Ajit Pai, has caused much controversy among Americans. Net Neutrality gives every person in the U.S. a free, equal internet. Without Net Neutrality, companies can slow down other companies’ internet, block specific political content they don’t agree with, and charge their customers fees for using certain websites or applications. Net Neutrality has helped Americans in a number of way such as earn degrees and get jobs. Net Neutrality also protects citizens’ first amendment rights on the Internet.

Netflix, one of the biggest supporters of Net Neutrality, tweeted, “We’re disappointed in the decision to gut #NetNeutrality protections that ushered in an unprecedented era of innovation, creativity & civic engagement. This is the beginning of a longer legal battle. Netflix stands with innovators, large & small, to oppose this misguided FCC order.” Netflix is right. Without Net Neutrality, Americans may no longer make progress whether that is in their career or personal life.

Net Neutrality matters to the Z generation and millenials the most and here’s why: both of these demographic groups of people are the face of the future. Without Net Neutrality, what they do with their future and their success is extremely limited. Net Neutrality is needed to find jobs and earn degrees. In this society that values education so highly, Net Neutrality provides an opportunity for education for every single person.

Without Net Neutrality rules, there will be a major decrease in competition between businesses which could stifle the economy. Only certain websites controlled by big corporations will only be allowed to be used which gives large amounts to those companies and leaves smaller companies with basically nothing.

Net Neutrality also protects one’s first amendment rights. Without it, certain websites and political content can be blocked from being seen so people won’t be able to obtain certain information. People won’t be able to gain knowledge on our certain issues or support organizations that are against the current administration. We need Net Neutrality in order to be informed and aware of what’s happening with our government, in our country, and all over the world. Americans need Net Neutrality more than ever due to the actions of Trump and his administration. For more information about Net Neutrality and why Americans should fight to reverse the repeal, please visit savetheinternet.com.