Thanks to investors like TIAA-CREF, palm oil has become the world’s most widely used vegetable oil. But the palm oil explosion has left a trail of deforestation, child labor, and endangered species in its wake.
Together, we’re calling on TIAA-CREF to hit the destructive palm oil industry where it hurts -- the wallet. By taking on big financial backers like TIAA, we have the power to finally hold the palm oil industry accountable for its worst abuses.
Use our call tool to ask TIAA-CREF to commit to human rights and sustainability by adopting a Deforestation and Land Grab-Free investment policy!
Here is an example of how a conversation could start (or you can just wing it!):
Hello, I’m [Your Name],
I am calling to express my concern over TIAA-CREF's financing of conflict palm oil.
As someone with a TIAA-CREF retirement plan [if applicable], I do now want my money going towards the destruction of precious tropical forests, the endangerment of Sumatran wildlife including orangutans and elephants, and a palm oil labor system that regularly exploits workers, including children.
TIAA-CREF has a responsibility to commit to a Deforestation and Land Grab-Free investment policy, and I am calling to implore TIAA-CREF to do just that.
Thank you for your time.
FAQs
What if they ask who asked me to call?
Tell the person that you’re a member of a global organization called SumOfUs (with hundreds of thousands of members across the United States + Canada), which runs campaigns to keep corporations accountable. Tell them you’re calling as someone who is concerned about conflict palm oil.
Do I have to be an expert to call and express my concerns?
No! But if you do want more guidance, check out the Don't Palm Us Of website
here -- it’s great! There's lots of useful research and background information.
What if the person asks me a question you can’t answer?
It’s ok to say you don’t know. Or you might want to say that you will research the answer and contact them back with more information.
What if I’m not connected?
The line may be busy - sorry about that. Please do try calling again during office hours.
More information