As global vaccine rollout continues, marking how society will start to return to some level of normalcy, it has been estimated that more than 85 poor countries will not have widespread access to coronavirus vaccines before 2023. Reaching herd immunity is key for Global South nations, allowing them to minimize the large impacts this crisis has had and continues to have, on those most vulnerable. Successful vaccination is highly dependent on factors such as physical space, population size, number of healthcare workers, infrastructure, and political will.

Magis Americas has joined more than 47 Catholic organizations promoting vaccine equity in the U.S. and around the world. This group, called the “Catholic Cares Coalition”, understands access to vaccine equity to be particularly vital domestically for communities of color and individuals living in rural areas. In the Global South, the group calls for increased access among marginalized and vulnerable groups, including refugees and other displaced people. Bound together by Catholic Social Teachings and Identity, this coalition is providing information and resources on issues related to COVID-19 vaccines at www.catholiccares.org.

“COVID-19 is showing us that we are one humanity and how overcoming a crisis is possible when we become aware of the importance of looking after the common good and taking seriously our own individual responsibility. We can only live as one body.” – Fr. Arturo Sosa, Father General of the Society of Jesus.

Click here to read the press release announcing the Catholic Cares Coalition.