Global Citizen and the World Health Organization recently brought together the world’s top musicians and entertainers for an online concert to raise funds for the ongoing global response to Covid-19.
The One World: Together at Home special united people virtually through the power of music and advocacy when it streamed on April 18. More than 70 A-list entertainers, including Alicia Keys, Billie Eilish, Elton John, Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Pharrell Williams and Taylor Swift among others, performed for the virtual audience.
To amplify the concert’s reach worldwide, global tech giants such as Amazon, Apple, Facebook and YouTube streamed the concert on their respective platforms. Alibaba Group has broadcast the show across its various platforms, such as Youku, Xiami, Damai, AliExpress and Lazada.
“We are proud to support Global Citizen and the World Health Organization’s efforts to unite the world and support frontline healthcare workers in this difficult time. Through Alibaba’s global platforms, we want to help share the message of solidarity and hope as we stand together in the fight against the coronavirus,” said Alibaba Group Chief Marketing Officer Chris Tung.
The concert is Global Citizen’s latest effort to rally support for frontline healthcare workers and raise awareness and donations for the cause. Since mid-March, the international advocacy group has worked with artists such as Chris Martin, John Legend, Charlie Puth, Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello to livestream virtual mini-concerts for fans and followers. This #TogetherAtHome campaign has been encouraging people to practice social distancing while staying inspired, empowered and connected.
“As we honor and support the heroic efforts of community health workers, One World: Together at Home aims to serve as a source of unity and encouragement in the global fight to end Covid-19,” said Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen, in the lead-up to the event. “Through music, entertainment and impact, the global live-cast will celebrate those who risk their own health to safeguard everyone else’s.”
The concert raised $55.1 million for the World Health Organization’s Covid-19 Solidarity Respond Fund, according to Global Citizen. In the week leading up to the concert, a flight carrying critical personal protective equipment donated by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation took off from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It is part of a larger effort from the WHO to transport vital supplies across the African continent, where they are much needed to contain the spread of Covid-19.
“We may have to be apart physically for a while, but we can still come together virtually to enjoy great music. The One World: Together at Home concert represents a powerful show of solidarity against a common threat,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization. He added that the WHO has mobilized all public health resources and measures to support frontline health workers at this time.
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