A group of 80 nuns residing in a monastery near Kansas City have gained recognition as persistent shareholder activists within the corporate realm. Led by Sister Barbara McCracken, these Benedictine sisters from Mount St. Scholastica have taken on major companies such as Google, Target, and Citigroup on various issues, including AI oversight, pesticide measurement, and Indigenous rights.

Despite being described as a small irritant by Sister McCracken, these nuns have made a significant impact through their activism. They recently garnered attention for critiquing a commencement speech by Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, where he highlighted the value of women as wives and mothers. The nuns, who prioritize women’s education and empowerment, expressed concerns about such sentiments.

The Benedictine sisters, many of whom hold doctorates and have pursued professional careers, invest in companies that align with their religious principles. Additionally, they hold shares in companies that do not, enabling them to advocate for policy changes they deem necessary. Their shareholder resolutions have covered a range of topics, from human rights assessments to lobbying transparency.

The nuns’ venture into shareholder activism began in the 1990s when they started setting aside funds to support elderly community members. This responsible investment approach aligns with their core belief in equitable wealth distribution for the common good. Their activism is rooted in Catholic social teaching, advocating for social justice, environmental stewardship, and inclusive values.

Despite facing criticism for their progressive stance, particularly on issues like climate change, the nuns remain steadfast in their commitment to effecting positive change through activism. Their involvement in shareholder resolutions, although often non-binding, serves as a platform to raise awareness and push for corporate accountability. The Benedictine sisters draw inspiration from their centuries-old tradition of prayer, work, and communal living.

As they navigate the intersection of religion, ethics, and economics, these nuns continue to engage in shareholder activism as a form of protest and advocacy. Sister McCracken, a seasoned peace activist, leads their efforts with determination and resilience. The Mount St. Scholastica sisters uphold a tradition of social responsibility and environmental consciousness while embodying the values of inclusivity and justice in their actions.