Hosted by Selena Gomez, the concert — which includes performances by Eddie Vedder, Foo Fighters, Jennifer Lopez and many more — will call on philanthropists and corporations to donate money to help vaccinate over 27 million frontline healthcare workers worldwide. Global Citizen hopes that they can encourage corporations and philanthropists to donate $22.1 billion to secure two billion vaccine doses as well as other medical supplies by the end of 2021.
Global citizen has already raised over $50 million and has secured enough funding for 10.3 million doses of the vaccine days before the event is scheduled to take place. The Vax Live event was designed to secure 10 million vaccines by May 8.
“Global Citizen initially set out to secure enough funding from philanthropists, the private sector, and governments, to purchase 10 million vaccine doses as part of our campaign. Through the amazing work of our hosts, campaign chairs, and actions taken by global citizens, I am proud that tonight we have already surpassed our goal, securing enough funding for 10.3 million doses,” said Global Citizen co-founder and CEO Hugh Evans in a statement.
Global Citizen is also aiming to foster public confidence in COVID-19 vaccines, encouraging people to visit their website and ask questions that will be answered with fact-based information regarding popular vaccine concerns. Anyone is free to ask a vaccine-related question on the Global Citizen website.
Among other performers at Vax Live are J Balvin, and H.E.R. The YouTube stream will have an extended run-time which includes appearances from YouTube stars Daniel El Travieso, Kati Morton, ShootforLove, Thembe Mahlaba, and The Try Guys.
“Vax Live campaign chairs Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will also deliver an important global message for vaccine equity during the event,” according to a Global Citizen press release.
Major international leaders such as United States President Joe Biden alongside First Lady Jill Biden will have featured messages airing during the event. Vice President Kamala Harris and His Holiness Pope Francis will also be delivering messages throughout the concert.
As well, there will be special appearances from Ben Affleck, Chrissy Teigen, David Letterman, Gayle King, Jimmy Kimmel, Nomzamo Mbatha, Olivia Munn, and Sean Penn.