Agrarian movements in the United States have a rich history, with acts of resistance and advocacy spanning centuries. From California farmworkers striking and unionizing in the 1960s, to farmers driving their tractors to Washington, D.C., during the Farm Crisis of the late 1970s and early ’80s, the struggles of agricultural workers have left a lasting impact.

This week, a new movement seemed to be taking shape at Freedom Plaza near the White House. Farmers and their supporters gathered for the Rally for Resilience, aiming to draw attention to the urgency of the climate crisis. The event was part of a larger effort organized by 24 organizations, including the HEAL Food Alliance, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC), and the Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI-USA). These organizations joined forces to coordinate three days of action in Washington, D.C., coinciding with the upcoming reauthorization of the country’s major farm legislation.

The rally attracted a diverse crowd of a few hundred farmers and allies, representing various backgrounds and interests. Participants included Indigenous and Black individuals, urban and rural dwellers, organic and regenerative farmers, as well as farmers and farmworkers. Notably, amidst concerns about an aging farming population and the concentration of farmland ownership, many young individuals were present, indicating a commitment to carrying on the fight for a sustainable farming future.

David Senter, who had driven his tractor from Texas to demand parity for farmers in 1979, expressed his support for the younger generation at the rally. He pledged his backing to the new wave of farmers and their dedication to farming and environmental stewardship. Well-known farmer advocates John Mellencamp and Willie Nelson also lent their support to the cause, with Mellencamp appearing on stage and Nelson sending a video message.

The movement as a whole recognizes the disproportionate impacts of the climate crisis and acknowledges that proposed policy solutions may not adequately address the needs of marginalized agricultural groups. Farmers carried signs advocating for reduced reliance on oil and a greater focus on soil health. They also emphasized the importance of Black food sovereignty and prioritizing communities over corporations.

Julieta Saucedo, a small-scale farmer from El Paso, Texas, spoke about the agroecological practices passed down in her family and the significance of the relationship with the soil for future food systems. She emphasized the need to view farmers not merely as a source of labor but as key stakeholders in shaping the future of food production.

As the farmers prepared to march to the Capitol building and engage with legislators to discuss the farm bill the following day, it was evident that although significant challenges lie ahead, their collective strength was growing—a reflection of the efforts of their ancestors. Farmer Chili Yazzie from the Navajo Nation acknowledged the resilience of farmers but recognized that Mother Nature posed formidable challenges.

Learn more : Farmers for Climate Action: Rally for Resilience | Endorse NSAC’s 2023 Farm Bill Platform | Take Action!