Iman recently stunned at the Met Gala. It has been a while since we have seen Iman in the public eye but she never disappoints. Iman, who was a Somalian refugee at the age of 16, is the driving force behind a new global initiative for vaccine equity as the Global Advocate for CARE. The initiative sees Iman and 70 “influential artists and entertainers” calling on global leaders to ensure that 70% of the world’s population is vaccinated by the end of 2022. The list of entertainers include Tony Goldwyn (yes, that Mr. President), Anne Hathaway, Richard Gere, Ciara, Eva Longoria and many more. Below are a few more details from People:

In the letter, the famous activists emphasized the fact that “only 2% of people in low-income countries have received a single dose, leaving the world’s most vulnerable to face COVID with no protection” and called on world leaders to help developing countries get the resources necessary to vaccinate their population.

Speaking about her role at CARE, Iman tells PEOPLE exclusively, “The Global Advocate role was specifically created for me back in 2019, and I’ve been honored ever since to continue to amplify and strengthen CARE’s ongoing work, and ultimately, use my platform to fight for meaningful — and lasting — change.”

“As a Somali refugee, I’ve felt drawn to helping advocate for human rights and the safety and security of people around the world. There’s this very real and natural connection to the work CARE is doing and my existing passions.”

She continues, “I became a refugee at age 16 and I am committed to bettering future generations of women especially those in developing nations. Without [non-governmental organizations] like CARE, my life trajectory would likely be very different and my role as a Global Advocate is how I pay it forward and express my sincere gratitude for the critical work the organization is doing around the globe.”

Iman explains that coronavirus “disproportionately affects the most vulnerable” population, like “refugees and forcibly replaced” people who have already endured natural disasters and wars. “Now, they’re facing this devastating pandemic,” she says.

“We must think of future generations and ensure a global response aimed at recovery. Here, in the United States, we are fortunate to have the necessary resources and infrastructure readily available.” the activist says. “I’m a firm believer in the dignity of all people and this pandemic has shown us that we’re stronger, better, and healthier when we come together and share resources.”

[From People]

The numbers that Iman provides for underdeveloped nations are appalling. Less than 2% of the poorest countries are vaccinated and we wonder why COVID is still spreading. These wealthier nations should be breaking their necks to make sure citizens around the world have access to the vaccine. Especially if they are squawking about reopening their borders for traveling purposes and cash flow. I love how Iman is using her own experience as a refugee to help others. And I also love the fact that CARE (an organization I am just now learning about) created the position of Global Advocate specifically for Iman. I hope that initiatives like CARE and Global Citizen Live will help the most vulnerable global citizens get access to vaccinations. To keep everyone safe from this virus, 70% of the world’s population needs to be vaccinated. I will definitely be following this story to see the impact and outcome. It is great that all of these high profile names signed on to this initiative but I would like to see more celebrities from other countries as well. We are all in this together and I am happy to see people like Iman leading the charge.

Embed from Getty Images

photos via Instagram and credit Getty

----------------------------

By: Oya
Title: Iman heads new campaign for vaccine equity, calls on global leaders
Sourced From: www.celebitchy.com/734100/iman_heads_new_campaign_for_vaccine_equity_calls_on_global_leaders/
Published Date: Fri, 24 Sep 2021 11:10:48 +0000

Read More