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CHARLOTTE – With organized chants and giant signs, dozens gathered outside TIAA CREF's annual shareholder's meeting in Charlotte Tuesday.

The group, Jewish Voice for Peace, is calling on the Fortune 100 financial services company to cut ties with companies in its investment portfolio they say are profiting from the Israeli occupation. They referenced companies like Caterpillar Inc. and Veolia.

"It's so important what we do with our money, especially money that's for people's retirement," said Jerry Markatos, who came all the way from Pittsboro to attend the demonstration.

Earlier this year, a group of shareholders say they tried to get the resolution on the agenda but that request was denied.

"We have some people inside who are going to bring it up during the open question and answer period but they are trying their hardest not to talk about it at all," said Rebecca Vilkomerson, with Jewish Voice for Peace.

"TIAA CREF's slogan is 'For the greater good.' It is not for the greater good to keep their money in the Israeli occupation," added fellow organizer David Matos.

According to the company's website, TIAA CREF is a leading retirement provider for those who work in the academic, research, medical, and cultural fields.

While security did not allow cameras inside the meeting, a spokesperson emailed the following statement on the matter:

“Our investment committee makes decisions that are guided by our corporate governance policies. We are always listening and determining how best to serve clients according to our guidelines.”

Jim Dugan, Chief Corporate Spokesperson for Caterpillar Inc. also submitted this statement:

“Caterpillar Inc. (“Caterpillar”) appreciates the concerns raised over unrest in the Middle East. We have compassion for all persons affected by the political strife in the Middle East and support a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“Caterpillar’s products are designed to improve quality of life. The vast majority of the three million Caterpillar products in operation around the world are playing a positive role in advancing global economic development and standards of living. Understandably, Caterpillar cannot monitor the use of every piece of its equipment around the world. However, we recognize the responsibility companies have to encourage the constructive use of their products.  To that end, we do not condone the illegal or immoral use of any Caterpillar equipment, and consistent with Caterpillar’s Worldwide Code of Conduct, we expect our customers to use our products in environmentally responsible ways and consistent with human rights and the requirements of international humanitarian law.”

“Further complicating the Middle East situation, Caterpillar and its related companies are subject to strict anti-boycott requirements under two U.S. laws – the Tax Reform Act of 1976 and the Export Administration Act. These laws are intended to stop U.S. and U.S. related companies from supporting or participating in boycotts not sanctioned by the U.S. government. Penalties for violations of the U.S. anti-boycott laws can be severe - they may include significant civil and criminal penalties and prohibitions on future exporting privileges and denial of tax benefits.”