Promoting Equitable COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution in the Greater DC Region

Join the Urban Institute and the Urban–Greater DC initiative for a virtual discussion on prioritizing equitable vaccine distribution to advance
the health and safety of the public and protect vulnerable communities in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV).

The COVID-19 vaccines have brought hope about the end of the pandemic, but the US faces distribution challenges. With a limited vaccine
supply, officials in the DMV have tried to target delivery by restricting eligibly to certain groups, but early data show significant racial
inequities in vaccination rates. Black and Latinx DMV residents are less likely to receive the vaccine than white residents, despite facing
higher mortality rates from COVID-19 and greater virus exposure risks at their jobs. These inequities could both prolong suffering for
the communities who have borne the brunt of the pandemic’s impacts and undermine an equitable economic recovery.

This conversation will focus on current vaccine distribution efforts in the DMV and explore strategies to improve equity and promote health
for the most vulnerable communities.