The Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) has adopted a Collective Voice policy to publicly express its values in support of justice and ecology, among others. This policy allows members of the Leadership Team to speak out on behalf of the Sisters on issues or events that require a rapid response.
One of many examples is the anti-racism statement issued following the protests surrounding the death of George Floyd in 2020. Another noteworthy development is the support of an interfaith movement for the passage of Bill C-15 in the Canadian Senate in support of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
SNJMs also express their collective voice through their responsible investments. This work is less visible to the public, but nevertheless important in influencing the decision makers of large corporations. The Congregation ensures responsible investment management by investing in funds that are fair to people and the environment.
In collaboration with other congregations and organizations, SNJMs hold funds in companies that are contrary to their values, such as firearms manufacturers. The goal is to influence decisions by tabling shareholder resolutions at annual general meetings. This has led to the introduction of new practices in some companies that benefit several populations or groups of people.
