"It's Up to You".

By the time the debate subsides and the information campaign ends, millions of words will have been written and spoken about the global business credential--more than 12,000 of them in this insert alone. Powerful words. Objective words. Emotion-filled words. All carefully chosen to bring to light valid and vibrant arguments on both sides.

But after all is said and done, reality comes down to just four words: "It's up to you." The fate of the global business credential rests in the hands of the AICPA membership. It rides on whether members check "yes" or "no" on the mail ballot referendum. The global business credential, as it has been designed by CPAs and CAs around the world, "will not happen unless the AICPA membership lets it happen," says AICPA President Barry Melancon. Nor should it!

A REQUEST TO THE APATHETIC 

It is clear that those solidly in favor or solidly opposed to the global business credential will cast their ballot. Urging them to vote is preaching to the choir. But we also need to hear from the silent majority of this profession--those who care little about the proposed credential or who see no relevance to themselves, their clients or employers.

Why?

First, this profession prides and defines itself on its commitment to the public interest. The global business credential is a matter of public protection. To those opposed, it signals a threat to jurisdictional control over professional service providers. To those in favor, it brings a globally consistent code of ethics and competencies to a rapidly evolving professional services arena. Second, numbers matter. A large "voter turnout" will send a message that the outcome is clearly decided. Third, for those who don't want the credential themselves but recognize that their colleagues should have the opportunity to pursue it, the solution lies in voting ... not in abstaining.

Finally, CPAs are good citizens. Good citizens vote!