MEMPHIS, Tenn. (From news reports) -- Like fellow local giants FedEx and First Horizon, International Paper Co. (IP) has spoken out against the killing of George Floyd, and racial injustice in America.
Recently, IP CEO Mark Sutton sent a letter to employees, which was then shared on the company's social media platforms.
"There is no place in our company, or in society, for racism or any form of discrimination," Sutton wrote. "I am committed to creating a more diverse and inclusive culture where individuals feel valued and engaged and have the opportunity to contribute their best every day."
He went on to tout what he considers to be IP's methods of business -- doing the right things, the right ways, for the right reasons -- and noted that, over the weekend, he supported a statement made by the Business Roundtable, of which he's a member.
The Business Roundtable (BR) is a conglomerate of U.S. based CEOs who collaborate on social, environmental, political, and economic issues. In the statement, the group denounced the killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others, and called for action.
"As the employers of more than 15 million individuals of all backgrounds, whose diversity strengthens our institutions, Business Roundtable CEOs are deeply concerned about the racial bias that continues to plague our society," the statement read. "We call on national, local, and civic leaders to take urgent, thoughtful action to prevent further tragedies and to help our communities heal."
This isn't the first time the BR has called for change. In August, it released a statement on the purpose of a corporation, which redefines its mission to promote an economy that supports all Americans -- not just shareholders.
The statement was signed by Sutton and FedEx CEO and chairman Fred Smith.
