Who is Leon Sullivan and why should we care today?

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Leon Sullivan was an African American minister from the Philadelphia area and an appointed board member of General Motors (GM). As a board member Rev. Sullivan became aware of the unfair labor practices in GM's South African factories, where the company was the largest employer of Black South Africans. In response, he spearheaded a major campaign against GM, which played a significant role in the divestment movements of the 1980s. His efforts led to the creation of the original Sullivan Principles:The Sullivan principles[1]

1. Non-segregation of the races in all eating, comfort, and work facilities.

2. Equal and fair employment practices for all employees.

3. Equal pay for all employees doing equal or comparable work for the same period of time.

4. Initiation of and development of training programs that will prepare, in substantial numbers, blacks and other nonwhites for supervisory, administrative, clerical, and technical jobs.

5. Increasing the number of blacks and other nonwhites in management and supervisory positions.

6. Improving the quality of life for blacks and other nonwhites outside the work environment in such areas as housing, transportation, school, recreation, and health facilities.

, now encapsulated in the Global Sullivan Principles. The new Principles began to address economic disparity; they were revised to address deeper moral issues that ultimately fuel economic inequity. He began a movement called “selected patronage” dont buy where don’t work”, what if “community patronage”, don’t buy where the community's interest is not evident. 

Reflecting on Rev. Sullivan and his pursuit of justice during my youth, I find myself wondering if his principles remain relevant today. Have they been forgotten? My curiosity stems from observing how some modern companies disregard equity, diversity, and inclusion, both globally and locally. As a woman of color, I question my own role in this system—how am I "feeding the fat cow" by supporting such companies? Whether it's buying a self-driving car, indulging in fast food, or shopping at a one-stop retailer for convenience, these choices weigh on my conscience. 

I often ask myself: What would Rev. Sullivan think about the current state of our nation, especially in light of recent events and what lies ahead? Most importantly, what actions would he take to address these challenges? Do our Gen Z and Millennials even care to think of these Principles or concerns as important today? I have included the update Principles at the end of this blog as well as a short Youtube video in case you feel the need to learn more, I hope you do! 

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The Global Sullivan Principles[4]

The Principles:

As a company which endorses the Global Sullivan Principles we will respect the law, and as a responsible member of society we will apply these Principles with integrity consistent with the legitimate role of business. We will develop and implement company policies, procedures, training and internal reporting structures to ensure commitment to these principles throughout our organisation. We believe the application of these Principles will achieve greater tolerance and better understanding among peoples, and advance the culture of peace.

Accordingly, we will:

1. Express our support for universal human rights and, particularly, those of our employees, the communities within which we operate, and parties with whom we do business.

2. Promote equal opportunity for our employees at all levels of the company with respect to issues such as color, race, gender, age, ethnicity or religious beliefs, and operate without unacceptable worker treatment such as the exploitation of children, physical punishment, female abuse, involuntary servitude, or other forms of abuse.

3. Respect our employees' voluntary freedom of association.

4. Compensate our employees to enable them to meet at least their basic needs and provide the opportunity to improve their skill and capability to raise their social and economic opportunities.

5. Provide a safe and healthy workplace; protect human health and the environment; and promote sustainable development.

6. Promote fair competition including respect for intellectual and other property rights, and not offer, pay or accept bribes.

7. Work with governments and communities in which we do business to improve the quality of life in those communities – their educational, cultural, economic and social well-being – and seek to provide training and opportunities for workers from disadvantaged backgrounds.

8. Promote the application of these principles by those with whom we do business.

We will be transparent in our implementation of these principles and provide information which demonstrates publicly our commitment to them.

Wikipedia

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