A Guide to Shareholder Activism

The hardest part of shareholder activism is getting enough votes to influence company policies. To initiate an action, work with a nonprofit organization that knows the ropes and already has a network. The most experienced shareholder activist organization is the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility. ICCR can help get your resolution on the ballot, then spread the word by publishing it in their journal and on their Web site.

Tim Smith, director of ICCR for almost 30 years, notes, “Even if a resolution doesn’t pass—and most don’t—it can still have considerable influence.” Why? Because corporate management wants smooth annual meetings and fears negative publicity.

Pay attention to resolutions on annual proxy statements. In addition to casting a ballot, you can write to the CEO, expressing your concerns. If you attend the annual meeting, raise issues during shareholder question time. First, do your homework and have a good grasp of the issue. And don’t assume that someone else will speak up.

Shareholder Activism Web Sites for Green Investors

www.iccr.org
Since 1971, the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility has been the leading organizer of progressive shareholder initiatives.

www.coopamerica.org
This section of Green America’s Web site is devoted to shareholder advocacy news.

www.fundvotes.com
Fund Votes tracks mutual fund proxy voting in the United States and Canada. This is an invaluable resource for finding a stock mutual fund that engages in shareholder activism.

www.asyousow.org
As You Sow’s Corporate Social Responsibility Program (CSRP) uses shareholder advocacy and the financial markets to catalyze positive.