President Biden signed Executive Order 13985 on his first day in office.
That order advances racial equity and support for underserved communities through the federal government. Disparities in our laws, public policies and institutions too often deny equal opportunity to individuals and communities and the Federal Government can help.
Over 90 federal agencies mobilized quickly to implement the Executive Order and uncover where systemic barriers to access may exist. They then developed Equity Action Plans for addressing—and achieving—equity in their mission delivery for all Americans.
It is a long-term commitment that will require sustained leadership and partnership with all communities including LGBTQI+ communities, people with disabilities, women and girls, and communities impacted by persistent poverty.
The order also includes an equity agenda, which will implement the first-ever national strategy on gender equity and equality.
This administration has also taken steps to cut child poverty by historic rates through the expansion of the Child Tax Credit.
Created the COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force and prioritized an equitable recovery from COVID-19.
Increased vaccination rates across communities of color.
Implemented the American Rescue Plan, expanded rent relief for millions of households and got people back to work.
Dedicated $260 million to eliminate administrative barriers that disproportionately prevent workers of color from completing benefit applications.
Given Restaurant Revitalization Funds to support over 72,000 restaurants owned by women and people of color.
Made infrastructure investments in communities of color, rural communities, and persistent poverty communities.
Promise dto bring clean drinking water to the 10 million American households that still face lead pipe exposure.
Digitally connect Americans who live in areas where there is no broadband or high-speed internet.
Will invest $92 billion to repair and modernize our public transportation systems which communities of color are twice as likely to rely upon to get to work.
Invest billions in small disadvantaged businesses, including minority-owned businesses.
Addressed racial bias in the housing market and address inequity in home appraisals.
