Activists push for ethical investment to combat homelessness

During a recent government meeting, community members Farrah Hug and Laura Spitzman advocated for the inclusion of an ethical investment clause in the Lansing City Charter. Both speakers emphasized the importance of aligning the city’s financial investments with values that promote social equity, environmental sustainability, and human rights.

Farrah Hug highlighted the pressing issue of homelessness in Lansing, noting that over 500 individuals experience homelessness each night, a number that has been increasing. She argued that ethical investments could uplift workers' rights, protect ecosystems, and make housing and energy more affordable, ultimately helping the city thrive and serving as a model for others.

Hug also called for a commitment to community human rights and equity, urging the city to refrain from supporting systems that perpetuate harm, both locally and globally. She referenced ongoing humanitarian crises, including those in Gaza, Sudan, and Congo, advocating for Lansing to take a leadership role in addressing these issues through local investment.

Laura Spitzman echoed these sentiments, asserting that the city’s financial choices should reflect a commitment to health, justice, and human rights. She pointed out that ethical investments not only align with moral values but also yield positive financial returns, citing research from the Harvard Business Review.

The discussions underscored a growing movement within the community to prioritize ethical considerations in municipal investment strategies, aiming to foster a more equitable and sustainable future for Lansing.