Divided We Lead: CEO Activism Has Entered the Mainstream

Leaders in all sectors, from business to sports to education, are increasingly wading into controversial political and social issues. Based on interviews with leaders who have made activism part of their core activities, we found that they feel compelled to address hot-button issues and are guided by their own values as well as the history and culture of their organization. They also complement their public activities with a “ground game” executed out of the limelight.