This panel sheds light on the history and current power dynamics of the food and farm system—a system with broad impacts on the climate, economy, public health, immigration, and more. Attendees will be prompted to think critically about how agriculture policy choices have fueled the consolidation of power and wealth not just in farming but in the economy and culture, and even impacted the US political landscape. Participants will recognize their own ability to engage in this space and make change through building relationships and shared power with a range of stakeholders and impacted communities.
Whether you’re looking to establish a new progressive caucus in your state, or want to strategize about how to strengthen an existing progressive caucus, come join this informal space for cross-state learning and exchange.
This panel will focus on breaking barriers and reshaping the narrative on agriculture and broader rural issues. Legislators and advocates will share stories of unexpected coalitions and organizing wins across traditional “divides.” Through thought-provoking and inspiring real-life examples, participants will learn ways to cultivate long-term power by working with rural communities and advocating for policies that positively impact rural lives. (This content builds from “Power and Greed” in the previous session but also stands well on its own.)
As two prior panels today have discussed, engaging on agriculture and broader rural issues can be a powerful way to build power but can feel challenging to progressive legislators. In this panel, participants will hear from legislator colleagues and issue experts about specific tools and tactics that have helped them advance their goals in this space, from messaging tips for rural communities to creative workarounds when powerful interests block legislation. (This content builds from “Beyond Divides” in the previous session but also stands on its own.)
