Sep. 8, 2021
To: rule-comments@sec.gov RE: In support of File Number 4-774 Dear Sir/Madam, PIE supports this petition to “Request the Commission develop mandatory rules for public companies to disclose high-quality, comparable, decision-useful information concerning BLM Pledge fulfillment” and note that a major bank has estimated the economy has lost $16 trillion "as a result of discrimination against African Americans." This estimate covers that cost of discrimination "in a range of areas, including in education and access to business loans U.S. GDP totaled $19.5 trillion last year." The study also notes that "the economy would see a $5 trillion boost over the next five years if the U.S. were to tackle key areas of discrimination against African Americans." See: https://ir.citi.com/NvIUklHPilz14Hwd3oxqZBLMn1_XPqo5FrxsZD0x6hhil84ZxaxEuJUWmak51UHvYk75VK eHCMI%3D Another study by consultants McKinsey and Company estimated that "the racial wealth gap also constrains the US economy as a whole. It is estimated that its dampening effect on consumption and investment will cost the US economy between $1 trillion and $1.5 trillion between 2019 and 2028—4 to 6 percent of the projected GDP in 2028." See: https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-and-socialsector/our-insights/the-economic-impact-of-closing-the-racial-wealth-gap# PIE believes this petition will help to eliminate discrimination against African Americans. Thank you. Brady J. Buckner President Partnership for Innovation & Empowerment