The words of Ralph Waldo Emerson in his poem, “Concord Hymn,” evoke a sense of patriotism and courage in the face of adversity. In today’s world, where climate change, social unrest, authoritarianism, and pandemics threaten our way of life, we may feel powerless to effect change. However, as citizens with robust financial rights, we have the power to use our investments to make a difference.
Many of us may not realize the impact our investments can have on corporate decisions and global policies. By engaging with our fiduciaries, who control a significant portion of corporate stock and bonds, we can influence companies to act responsibly and address systemic risks such as climate change and economic inequality.
Our fiduciaries have a duty to invest our money wisely, not only for financial returns but also to minimize risks that could jeopardize our portfolios. By advocating for ethical and sustainable investing practices, we can push companies to prioritize social and environmental responsibility.
Examples like the California State Teachers’ Retirement System and the campaign to support workers’ collective bargaining rights at Starbucks show the power of engaged fiduciaries in driving positive change. By activating our fiduciary relationships and holding them accountable for addressing systemic risks, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for ourselves and future generations.
It’s time to recognize the power we hold as citizen stockholders and use it to make a difference in the world. Let’s embrace our financial rights and work towards a better future for all. The bridge to change is within reach – let’s take the first step and make our voices heard through our investments.