April 15, 2011
April 15, 2011
The Honorable Mary L. Schapiro
Chairman
Securities and Exchange Commission
100 F Street NE
Washington, DC 20549
Dear Chairman Schapiro,
The illicit trade in conflict minerals is of great concern to me, both as a consumer and an investor. In no way do I want to be complicit in supporting the violence and terror that has permeated the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Im asking that you swiftly implement strong rules that cover all conflict materials and the companies that procure them, from one end of the supply chain to the other. Please ensure that DRC conflict-free products are labeled only when they meet a high standard of proof, so it is possible to avoid products made with these ill-gotten source materials. I also want to be certain that my investment vehicles do not include businesses whose practices contribute to the on-going crises in the region. It is important that I have a choice when making these purchase and investment decisions.
Thank you for the work you are doing on this issue. You have an opportunity to have a profound and positive effect on a suffering population.
Sincerely,
Madeline Fox
River Ridge, Louisiana 70123