Godspeed, Ukraine

The ongoing Russian siege of Ukraine is serving as the latest reminder of the interconnected nature of the world in which we live and work.

The awful news and headlines created by Vladimir Putin’s invasion have tremendous effects half a world away. Political discourse has gotten hotter as recriminations about the factors that led to war seem to be taking over public debate. President Biden’s State of the Union address tonight will almost certainly discuss this conflict. Markets that have shown uncertainty all year have become more volatile. Closer to home, Empower and Personal Capital customers seeking reassurances about their retirement and financial plans are contacting us with greater frequency.

At Empower, it’s important to be mindful that we have colleagues, clients and other stakeholders who hail from both Ukraine and Russia and all parts of Eastern Europe.?

While a greater degree of anxiety is on the rise, there’s always tremendous hope that through diplomacy and dialogue cooler heads will prevail before there’s any more loss of life. To borrow a phrase from Abraham Lincoln, we must have faith that the better angels of our nature will prevail.

To support on-the-ground relief efforts in Ukraine, our organization, through Great-West Lifeco, together with members of the Power Corporation Group of Companies, will be contributing $200,000 to Canadian Red Cross as part of the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal.

It’s during times of uncertainty that we must think more broadly about our role in the world.?Clients and their needs must come first and foremost, but as geopolitics grab the headlines and the world’s attention, it’s crucial that our actions take into account our responsibilities to each other. Those in Ukraine need our attention and support as do those who are indirectly impacted by the conflict. It is our duty to serve them.

Godspeed, Ukraine.