The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced many challenges across the U.S., many of which are comparatively and disproportionately compounded in communities of color. The pandemic has exposed existing racial disparities that impact communities of color across the socio-economic spectrum—including employees at some of America's largest companies. Addressing the complex issues caused and worsened by COVID-19 requires a strategic and evidence-based approach. As the COVID-19 vaccine becomes available, employers can play a significant role in ensuring equitable vaccine access within their workplaces and communities.

The implications

COVID-19 has exposed longstanding systemic inequities that have long undermined the economic, physical, social, and emotional health of minority populations. The disparate impact on communities of color is stark. In Chicago, for instance, where Black people represent 30% of the population, they are the face of 57% of COVID-19 deaths—nearly four times more than any other racial demographic.