Nordstrom is beginning 2021 by reaffirming its commitment to address systemic racial inequity. The department store retailer set goals in August that include increasing Black and Latinx representation among its managers by at least 50%, and delivering $500mn in retail sales from brands owned by, operated by or designed by Black and/or Latinx individuals. Nordstrom also is increasing charitable donations to organizations that promote anti-racism to $1mn per year for the next five years.

In honour of February's Black History Month, Nordstrom is preparing to celebrate Black-owned brands through various merchandise categories in store and online. Its New Concepts @Nordstrom pop-up program will launch Concept 012: Black_Space, a national retail platform for designers, creatives and thought leaders across varied perspectives and experiences representing Black culture. The initiative will include an immersive shopping experience across 12 Nordstrom stores nationwide and its web — developed, designed and curated by Black voices.

In addition, during the months of February and March, the Nordstrom New York City flagship will unveil its latest pop-up showcasing Black-owned brands across beauty, clothing, shoes and accessories. These new partnerships build on a strong foundation the company has established for itself, with an emphasis on creating an environment where its customers feel a sense of belonging and employees can be themselves, contribute their ideas, be heard and do their best work. Previous accomplishments and partnerships include:

• Reaching 100% pay equity and nearly 100% pay parity in 2019, with an established plan for continued maintenance;

• Improved employee diversity, with women representing 68% of all employees; 60% of leadership;

• Adding diversity within its Board of Directors; five of twelve are women and three are people of colour;

• Supporting the important work of non-profit organizations including NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation and the National Urban League, among others.

Earlier this year, in honour of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan. 18), Nordstrom joined forces with a long-term partner the National Urban League to host a day of employee volunteering and learning. With a focus on making MLK Day a "day on" rather than a "day off," together Nordstrom and National Urban League connected employees with virtual volunteer opportunities and educational resources to learn more about Dr King's work and ways to honour and build upon his legacy.