Taking Action Against Systematic Inequality
According to the US Constitution, race-based discrimination is illegal. And yet, progress is incremental and injustice persists. Corporations must be held accountable, as their influence on the issue is significant: as employers, suppliers, and neighbors. Some firms tout their commitment to diversity among their ranks, but results at executive levels are dismal. In the history of the Fortune 500 list, there have been only 19 African-American CEOs out of 1,800. On the other hand, companies who perpetuate systemic inequality by ignoring the impacts of their businesses on communities of color are also part of the problem. A recent study found that African Americans and Hispanic Americans bear a "pollution burden": Blacks are exposed to about 56% more pollution than is caused by their consumption. For Hispanics, it is slightly higher – 63%. Investors can take action and make a difference.
