We actively engage in ongoing shareholder public debates over proxy-related issues such as corporate governance best practices, appropriate executive compensation, shareholder rights, and the materiality of social and environmental risk. We work closely with the broad community of shareholder advocates through our membership in investor networks including the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, Ceres Investor Network, U.S. Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment, Confluence Philanthropy, and the Shareholder Rights Network, as well as through collaboration with the Intentional Endowments Network, Principles for Responsible Investment, and the Council of Institutional Investors.

As You Sow and Proxy Impact staff and management annually review the guidelines to assess if modifications are needed. The As You Vote advisory committee conducts a final review of the guidelines, debate the issues, and add insight to the process.

These guidelines are also intended to inform all investors on how to vote in an ESG-aligned way. They can be adapted and customized for use by foundations, endowments, asset managers, and retail investors. Please use them as a baseline for discussion with your investment committees, trustees, and financial advisors.