Gap Joined The 15 Percent Pledge & That Means More Opportunities For Black Communities

Gap Inc just recently promised to dedicate some of its financial power to make a difference in the Black community. 

In a Gap Canada press release Monday, the retail giant announced it has joined the "15 Percent Pledge," a non-profit advocacy organization that seeks to get big retail chains to "commit 15% of their shelf-space to Black-owned businesses." 

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15% Pledged increase in Gap Inc pipeline programs

Gap Inc will be taking the pledge along with its many branches including Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta.

The founder of the 15 Percent Pledge, Aurora James, believes it is important for companies to scale up in creating more opportunities for Black people in the workforce, according to the statement.

"We are thrilled that Gap Inc. is partnering with us to drive racial equity across retail," she said.

The company also announced that it plans to increase its "pipeline programs" by 15% to push for more work opportunities within its family of branches. 

This would mean more internship, externship, apprenticeship, and training.

Gap Inc. will also be donating $200,000 USD to the 15 Percent Pledge organization to reinforce its goal for change. 

"Driving lasting change takes time and maniacal focus, and we're invested for the long-term," Kisha Modica, head of Equality & Belonging for Gap Inc said.

"As we strive to enable a culture of inclusion and belonging for all, we are excited to partner with the 15 Percent Pledge to accelerate our commitment to increase access and opportunity for Black and Latinx communities."