Band-Aid is expanding its product line with a range of bandages for various skin tones. The century-old brand announced the move Thursday, amid worldwide protests for racial justice and equality.
"We hear you. We see you. We’re listening to you," the Johnson & Johnson-owned company wrote on Instagram. "We stand in solidarity with our Black colleagues, collaborators and community in the fight against racism, violence and injustice. We are committed to taking actions to create tangible change for the Black community."
The new line of bandages will come in various hues to better match the various skin tones of its customers. Band-Aid said the goal of these products is to "embrace the beauty of diverse skin," while underscoring its commitment to "inclusivity and providing the best healing solutions."
Band-Aid announced it's also donating to Black Lives Matter, and reassured its costumers this is the first of many steps in the company's fight against racial injustice.
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"We can, we must and we will do better," the company concluded.
Like many other companies, Band-Aid has faced years of scrutiny for its so-called "nude" products that were racially exclusive. CNN points out that in 2005, Band-Aid released the Perfect Blend bandage line that offered a range of multiracial flesh tones; however, Band-Aid claimed the products were ultimately discontinued because of "lack of interest at the time."
This week's announcement, of course, drew mixed reactions. Some applauded the company for moving toward inclusivity, while others suggested it was a little too late. A number of Twitter users encouraged others to support companies like Tru-Colour and Browndages, which have been producing bandages in various skin tones for years.
It’s about time. BAND-AID. You see, with leadership you don’t give people credit for doing something, you give them credit when they do something when it is right, it is just and it is unpopular. So yes, this should have been done 100 years ago. THIS is an example of equity. pic.twitter.com/V6G9xK9lJY
— Joe Robert Thornton (@joerobertthrntn) June 12, 2020