Healthcare company Johnson & Johnson has announced plans to expand its commitment and address racial and social injustice in the U.S.

The organization has pledged $100 million over the next five years to invest in and promote health equity solutions for Black and brown communities across the country, according to a news release.

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended the economy throughout the year and revealed implicit systemic racism that has greatly impacted health equity in America.

“The quality of your healthcare should not be determined by your race and ethnicity,” said Alex Gorsky, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Johnson & Johnson, in a press statement.

She continued her statement sharing her sentiments of the state of healthcare for Black and brown citizens in America:

“There is an urgent need to take on the inequities rooted in systemic racism that threaten health in communities of color across the United States. That’s why Johnson & Johnson is focusing its efforts and committing $100 million to address racial and social injustice as the critical public health issue that it is. As the largest and most broadly-based healthcare company in the world, we are uniquely positioned to convene private, public and community organizations in pursuit of this shared aspiration—and work together to make a meaningful impact through science, business, public health, and philanthropy.”

According to their announcement, Johnson & Johnson has prioritized three key areas to focus on:

    • Healthier Communities – investing in programs that help provide equitable healthcare for underserved communities

    • Enduring Alliances – forging partnerships and alliances that combat racial and social health determinants

    • Diverse & Inclusive Corporate Culture – ensuring a diverse and inclusive workforce

Additionally, Johnson & Johnson plans to make multi-million-dollar investments in its Healthier Communities and Enduring Alliances programs as well as its Diverse & Inclusive Corporate Culture program, which will largely focus on enhancing processes, training, and education.

While the company’s announcement demonstrates immediate action steps toward social justice, Johnson & Johnson’s commitment will continue long after this year and its five-year mark.

For more information on Johnson & Johnson’s plan, click here.