Few things are as grounded in the natural world, history, and tradition as basketmaking — a skill passed down through generations of the Mi’kmaq Nation in northern Maine. Now, with reliable internet access across Maine, this tradition can reach further than ever and find new meaning in the modern world.

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Mi’kmaq Nation member and Presque Isle resident, Benjamin Harrison Lebeau, Jr., has worked for years to learn the skills needed to make traditional brown ash baskets. Lebeau not only weaves baskets, but develops professional photos of them so that more people can appreciate their beauty. “I came up with the camera work to show people this process, so that they can see every little trick of the trade,” he said. 

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With the growth of online community spaces through social media, Lebeau continues to learn more digital skills to be able to reach people beyond his community. “Look at the new options I have,” Lebeau said. “I’m taking this in an entirely new direction, taking (basketmaking) from 100 years of tradition to a brand new thing for the entire world to see.”

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Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA), the public agency leading statewide expansion of high-speed internet and digital opportunity, has been collaborating with organizations and individuals statewide to bring opportunities like this one to life. 

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“Creating digital opportunities for Maine people is a statewide effort supported by local organizations, libraries, schools, tribes, nonprofits and community leaders,” Jessica Perez, senior manager of digital opportunity said. “This work succeeds because of the organizations across Maine that help people navigate technology every day.”

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Regional and community partners provide digital skills training, devices and trusted support. Programs such as Connectivity Hubs extend digital opportunity resources across Maine.

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“Connectivity is a really important tool for the tribe: sharing cultural traditions and knowledge with others via social media or websites,” said Fred Corey, a Presque Isle resident. “This has really opened a lot of doors, and I think people have really been waiting for it. They are glad to see how it is going to improve their quality of life.”

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When MCA was founded in 2021, more than 100,000 Maine homes and businesses had insufficient internet connections or none at all. In four years, MCA worked with government agencies, internet service providers and local organizations to improve or establish connectivity for 120,000 homes and businesses statewide. 

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Beyond building the necessary infrastructure for reliable connectivity, MCA ensures that Maine people also have the skills, devices and resources they need to take advantage of those connections made. Not only does this create opportunity for individuals and communities, it sustains the historic investment made in infrastructure across the state. 

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“Creating digital opportunity strengthens Maine’s economy and communities,”  Jessica Perez, senior manager of digital opportunity said. “When people can connect confidently and safely online, they gain access to jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services.”

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While we often think of the internet as being a tool for work or school, it’s also creating opportunities for community and connection that have not previously existed. Because of improved internet access and the ability to learn more digital skills, Benjamin truly can reach the world and give this 100-year old tradition a new life.