To the Editor:

Wikipedia. The online free encyclopedia refers to the “digital divide” as “the gap between people with effective access to digital and information technology, and those with very limited or no access at all. It includes the imbalance both in physical access to technology and the resources and skills needed to effectively participate as a digital citizen.”

Perusing the dozens of pictures in The Tidewater News photo contest, one would get the impression that there is very little cultural diversity in Franklin, Southampton County and Isle of Wight County. Anyone familiar with these areas knows that is not the case.

Since the photo contest rules don’t specially mention hard copy/mail submission of pictures, many people who probably would otherwise submit pictures may be daunted by the online submission process.

The “digital divide” may be a possible explanation for the lack of diversity in the submissions.

This is not a complaint but merely an observation that may spur those who may be hampered by the “digital divide” to step up their “information technology games.” If you are intimidated, just ask any 10-year-old for computer help.

Who wouldn’t want their potential winning picture to not be considered?

Don’t let the “digital divide” deprive you or your photogenic loved ones of 15 minutes — actually 12 months — of local fame.

Makalani Dingane
Suwanee, Ga.,
and Franklin

Editor’s note: The Tidewater News did not prohibit printed photographs submitted by mail or hand-delivery. Indeed, we received several such entries. We apologize if the contest rules were unclear.