During his first administration, Donald Trump directed his Securities and Exchange Commission to restrict rules on shareholder advocacy, make responsible investing more difficult, and generally give companies contributing to carbon pollution and injustice a pass. That did not slow us down.

Our response then, as now, is to unite as a community and stand firm against adversity. We will remain vigilant and positive in working with portfolio companies to create long-term value and reduce risk, while building momentum for a safe, just, and sustainable world for all.

In the face of what’s ahead, we will be even more nimble and innovative. Through it all we need to protect our freedom to make rational and fully informed investment decisions. No matter who is in the White House, the job is the same: demand that corporate leaders and fiduciaries look at the data that drives economically sound decision-making based on justice and long-term sustainable growth.

We will mobilize everyday investors to claim their right to align value and values; and to create a future that includes a livable planet on which to spend their retirements. We will continue to educate and organize every shareholder to use their proxy power and send a message to corporate boardrooms – politics may change, but the expectation that corporations will play their part in creating a more sustainable and just world does not.

Together, with the support and partnership of our allies, we will continue to execute our mission of reducing the impacts of climate change, defending the rights of nature, and standing up for all forms of justice.

We are well aware of the obstacles ahead. We know the coming years will bring new challenges. Real change is made by the people who refuse to give up even when the odds seem insurmountable. While today may feel overwhelming, we are crystal clear that our values and our vision of the future are not only possible – but necessary.

That is our strength.

This moment in history calls on each of us to escalate our commitments to this vision. We must be ready for that challenge.

If you feel uncertain about the road ahead, you are not alone. We will strengthen our alliances, link arms, and plan our actions on a long time horizon. We have faced adversity many times before and emerged stronger. Our work is essential and unstoppable as we take the next step on the path toward a safe, just, and sustainable world for all.

Andrew Behar is CEO of As You Sow, a non-profit leader in shareholder advocacy. Founded in 1992, As You Sow harnesses shareholder power to create lasting change and align investments with values.