Demanding U-M divestment from military companies

The University of Michigan is committed to conduct business in a manner that meets or exceeds the ethical expectations that society has of business operation. Contrary to this commitment, the University is fostering a global culture of violence through investments in military contractors such as Halliburton, General Dynamics, BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman and Raytheon. The future of this university should not lie in the business of war, but in the creation of a society in which lives are valued.



We the undersigned, as students, faculty, staff, and alumni of the University of Michigan, find our University's investment in war profiteers completely unacceptable. Raytheon, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems are weapons manufacturers, for whom the perpetuation of violence is profitable business. Raytheon and BAE peddle cluster bombs, which are known to indiscriminately kill civilians. Employees of Halliburton and Northrop Grumman subsidiary Vinnell replace military personnel in every capacity of the armed forces, creating a military without accountability. These civilians do not adhere to the same code of conduct as enlisted soldiers, and when they are killed, their bodies are not counted. By investing in these firms, the University is helping to turn war into a for-profit industry.



The University of Michigan is in a unique position to help build a better future and a stronger local economy. We must invest in firms working to promote environmental sustainability, workers' rights, and local industry to do so. In this way, the University of Michigan can set a positive example, showing others that educational institutions can be agents of peace.



We are major stakeholders in the University. Without our tuition, teaching, research, creative output, and labor, the University of Michigan would cease to function. It is your duty as Regents to honor our requests and ensure that the University remains true to its commitment to socially responsible procurement. Therefore, we request that the Board of Regents cause the University to fully divest from Halliburton, General Dynamics, BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, and all similarly unethical firms. If the Regents form a committee to investigate these investments, we request that the committee act swiftly and transparently towards positive action.



Furthermore, we ask that these funds be re-invested in firms that have maintained positive records in environmental conservation, human rights, labor relations, and equal opportunity employment. We strongly urge investment in firms providing alternative energy solutions, as well as local businesses. Examples include the New Alternatives Fund, the US Sustainable Energy Corporation, ECD Ovonics, and the Pax World Mutual Fund. Doing so will benefit both our world and ourselves.


Thank you very much for your prompt action.