by Adam O. Emmerich, David M. Silk, Sabastian V. Niles, Elina Tetelbaum, and Carmen X. W. Lu
Events of recent weeks and months have starkly illuminated the effects of systemic racism and injustice on Black Americans, including threats to physical safety, psychological trauma and economic disparity. CEOs worldwide and across industries have spoken out, expressing their horror and outrage, as well as their resolve to do more. Companies have announced significant financial commitments; others have referred to actions to be taken, and early movers have begun to announce or amplify business-related initiatives. Institutional investors, asset owners, asset managers, private equity fund limited partners and investor groups have also begun speaking out and considering action with respect to companies in their portfolios. The question for all is how to follow through on the sentiments expressed and drive positive change: what tools are available to address systemic racism and injustice and the threats they pose, and how can those tools be used?