Boulder invests $35M in companies linked to genocide amid city values debate

The Boulder City Council meeting on August 21, 2025, raised significant concerns regarding the city’s investment practices, particularly a $35 million investment in companies linked to controversial activities, including allegations of benefiting from genocide.

During the meeting, council members and community members expressed their discontent over the ethical implications of these investments. Questions were raised about how such financial decisions align with Boulder’s values, which emphasize human rights and social justice. The discussion highlighted a growing demand for transparency in the city’s investment strategies and a reevaluation of the criteria used to select investment opportunities.

Several council members acknowledged the need for a thorough review of the city’s investment policies to ensure they reflect the community's ethical standards. They emphasized the importance of aligning financial decisions with the city’s commitment to promoting peace and human dignity.

In addition to the main topic, the council also discussed potential measures to increase public engagement in investment decisions and the possibility of divesting from companies that do not meet ethical guidelines.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the implications of the current investment strategy and to explore options for aligning Boulder’s financial practices with its core values. The council plans to revisit this issue in future meetings, aiming to foster a more responsible and ethical investment approach.