Caught in the Inter‘net’ of Online Freedom

JACQUELYN LOI
Staff Writer

The Internet has become a necessity in everyone’s lives, so much so that we cannot fathom how we could go on without it. Currently, a monthly fee is charged for our Internet connection. However, all of this may change if our government does not take action soon to protect network neutrality principles that allow for all websites and services to be used freely and openly and allows us to keep our free speech on the Internet.

According to Save the Internet, on May 15, 2014, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Tom Wheeler presented a plan that would allow Internet service providers (ISPs) to discriminate against different online services and websites. This would mean that companies like AT&T, Comcast and Verizon would have the ability to charge someone depending on what online services and websites they use and then manage their internet access. For instance, these companies could block services such as Google Maps or websites such as Youtube and charge a person independently.

Many people depend on the open Internet to express their freedom of speech, circulate ideas and promote their companies. What the ISPs want to do will restrict people of their freedom and our privileges by setting up barriers between certain online services and websites and charging people extra.

The Internet should remain a framework for innovation and free expression. It allows everyone to connect, grow, learn and inform. Now, we are not only fighting for our freedom, but the openness of the Internet. There should be no barrier between people and their favorite online sites and services.