On agriculture and diversity

A brief response to NASDA's Diversity & Inclusion Policy

For the past 2 decades, from the time I reached Minnesota from Connecticut, I loved agriculture and the land and knew that was where I was supposed to be. However, for years, it seemed the industry did not believe that it was where I was supposed to be.

This week, I watched the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) prioritize and adopt a diversity and inclusion policy. I heard voices from across the country speak so eloquently and authentically of why this matters. I felt like I belonged to the industry that I have loved and given my energy and passion to for so long. For the many others who have been working here, I want you to feel this belonging, and even others who have not been in the industry to know that they should and could be here. 

Thank you to NASDA's members and Barb Glenn and her team for leading, for taking this step, for making it policy, and for the substantial work behind the scenes. We know that the statements come with changes at all levels so that everyone is heard and everyone can be at the table. Humans cannot live without food thus we are all intimately reliant on agriculture. The number of hardworking people who tirelessly and consistently ensure that this world is fed often do so with little acknowledgement or understanding. As agriculture and its people continue to face growing headwinds, we need everyone at this table to identify and implement sustaining and viable solutions.

I only recently connected with NASDA when I spoke on climate change at the 2019 conference in New Mexico. While there, I was so impacted by the energy and kindness shown by everyone. Government agencies often receive much heat; however, after years of experience working with state agencies, it is clear that those who stand up to serve their states and people, truly are passionate and want to serve their farmers, ranchers and the many others who feed the world and steward the lands and waters. This observation was only reinforced during my visit to New Mexico. Agriculture is one of the most complex (if not most complex) industries in the world - there are no easy solutions, and often, there are no apparent solutions at all.  

I appreciate the chance to have worked with so many in agriculture and hope we continue to come together around our commonalities and address the shared challenges we face. NASDA’s work bringing people together is a beautiful reminder that we can all belong in agriculture; and that the industry is better off because of the diverse people who bring it to life. 

I have the chance to speak with diverse, passionate experts in the Open Rivers Navigator podcast including a 3-part series on inequity, discrimination and resilience with special guest, Dr. LaKisha Odom.