The LEGO Group Announces New Partnerships That Support Racial Equality

In June 2020, the LEGO Group made a commitment to stand together with the Black community against racism and inequality and that we would donate to organizations dedicated to supporting Black children and educating all children about racial inequality.

Today, we are proud to introduce our newest partners:

1. SEO (Sponsors for Educational Opportunity) – SEO is a free, eight-year academic program for motivated young people from underserved and/or underrepresented communities. More than 90% of SEO students graduate from college and, as part of the SEO network, receive help with internships and career training.

2. EmbraceRace – A national initiative that supports adults to nurture healthy racial learning in children, with emphasis on the preschool through middle school years. EmbraceRace provides resources and community to parents, educators, and other adult caregivers who want to model and support critical race thinking and inclusive behavior for the children in their lives. Offerings include children's book resources, webinars, action guides, blogs and personal stories, curricula, and more.

3. The Brotherhood/Sister Sol (Bro/Sis) – For 25 years, this social justice organization has empowered young people to become agents for social change. This grant will expand on programs that address food insecurity and provide paid internships to high school students and alumni who maintain green spaces (a 6,000 sq/ft Community Garden, Farmer's Market, and Public Plaza) in Harlem. Each month, their emergency food distribution system provides 80,000 meals to predominantly Black and Latinx families.

4. Year Up – Talent is evenly distributed, opportunity is not. Year Up’s mission is to close the opportunity divide and achieve economic justice for all. Across the U.S., Year Up ensures that young adults gain the skills, experience, and support to empower them to reach their potential through meaningful careers and higher education. And their impact is proven: Year Up alumni earn 40% more on average than their peers, just two years after program completion.

In addition to financial support, the LEGO Group will also extend their resources, expertise, and platforms to aid in these partnerships. This includes mentorship and counsel to students near the LEGO Group's offices in Connecticut and other cities.