My name is Olivia Knight and I am speaking on behalf of shareholder representative, As You Sow. I formally move item number six. 

This resolution requests that Abbott Labs publish a report disclosing the company's plan to promote racial justice. Investors seek quantitative comparable data to understand if, and how, the company is promoting a commitment to racial justice. 

As You Sow encourages the report to include potential policies, the company could adopt to promote racial justice in its workplace and operations, as well as granular information on diversity equity and inclusion (or DEI).

2020 was a watershed year for a racial justice. The frustration, anger, and pain, caused by years of accumulated racial injustice erupted following the horrific murder of George Floyd, and sparked renewed demands for an end to systemic racism. 2020 was also a year of uncertainty and fear fueled by the coronavirus pandemic.

The need for leadership in the struggle for racial justice within the corporate health care sector has never been more urgent. Abbott has not stepped forward to fill that void.

Racial justice is a material issue to investors’ portfolios which Abbott must address with transparency. Given heightened awareness around racism failing to act and disclose policies and quantifiable data will reduce brand value and may lead to the material risk of revenue loss. 

Over the past year, As You Sow has created Racial Justice Scorecards on companies in the S&P 500. The resolution filed at Abbott is underscored by the company's concerningly low score, a 27 percent. This score is significantly below peers in the healthcare sector. Abbott is known as a socially conscious health care brand yet their inaction to respond to shareholders requests for a transparency on their journey to achieving racial equity, is in direct contrast. Inaction will result in Abbot's carefully constructed brand becoming tarnished. 

Incorporating racial justice, DEI, and transparent disclosure begins with the board and the C-suite. This internal change should be fostered with strong commitments, resources, and actions, to create a culture of belonging which radiates outwards. Not only is the incorporation of racial justice beneficial to business, but it will also help the company retain employees, create a strong brand reputation for DEI, and an inclusive corporate culture. 

This proposal is simple. This objective is simple. If not enacted, Abbott will be in direct opposition to their stakeholders’ concerns. 

Vote yes in favor of corporate transparency and disclosure on achieving racial equity. 

Thank you.