With OneTen, Merck is helping create 1 million jobs for Black Americans
Merck Chairman Ken Frazier serves as co-chair for a new initiative to create 1 million jobs for Black Americans in the next decade
December 10, 2020
In this moment when all Americans share an aspiration for economic opportunity, leading executives and employers across industries are taking action to make meaningful, measurable and lasting systemic impact on racial and economic justice and to create a more equitable society.
Merck Chairman Ken Frazier has signed on as co-chair for OneTen, a new initiative that aims to close the opportunity gap for Black Americans. Comprised of a coalition of leading CEOs and organizations, OneTen will combine the power of American companies — including Merck — to upskill, hire and promote 1 million Black Americans over the next 10 years into family-sustaining jobs with opportunities for advancement.
OneTen will connect employers with talent partners, leading non-profits and other skill-credentialing organizations that support the development of diverse talent. Ken serves as co-chair with Ginni Rometty, executive chairperson of IBM, and the organization is launching with the support of 35 founding CEOs and companies across many industries.
“This is a moment in time for Americans to move past our divisions to come together and reach our full potential as a nation. Our country’s workforce of the future will be an increasingly diverse one,” says Ken. “Through the creation of 1 million jobs for Black Americans over the next 10 years, OneTen has the potential to address persistent intergenerational gaps in opportunity and wealth.”
Read more about the initiative at oneten.org
