National Farmers Union (NFU) has welcomed the passage of a congressional resolution that acknowledges the important contributions of women in agriculture. The resolution, sponsored by Senators Deb Fischer and Amy Klobuchar and Representatives Ashley Hinson and Chellie Pingree, aims to highlight the roles women play in rural economies and encourages more participation and leadership from women and girls in the agricultural sector.
Ohio Farmers Union President Bryn Bird stated, “In the United States and across the world, women farmers play vital roles in agriculture that are often overlooked. Globally, women make up 41% of the agrifood workforce through all parts of the food chain and production lines and are often the head of their households at the same time. By celebrating IYWF 2026, we are taking steps towards a greater level of collective recognition for these unsung heroes that keep us all fed and clothed.”
NFU President Rob Larew said, “NFU is proud to celebrate the International Year of the Woman Farmer alongside many of our agricultural colleagues. Today’s resolution reaffirms one of NFU’s core values of gender equity and highlights the need for women to have equal access to land, capital, and resources. NFU is grateful to Sens. Fischer and Klobuchar and Reps. Hinson and Pingree for sponsoring this resolution so that women farmers are able to get the recognition they deserve.”
The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026), with its Food and Agriculture Organization leading a global campaign to recognize women's efforts in agrifood systems worldwide.
Founded in 1902, National Farmers Union represents hundreds of thousands of members through state and local divisions with a democratic structure guided by member input. The organization provides education, advocacy, policy discussions at annual conventions, leadership training, community building events, programs through state branches, cooperative initiatives, as well as support for fair farm policies and sustainable practices designed to benefit family farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and promote economic growth. More information about NFU’s activities can be found on their official website.
A joint press release from Senators Fischer and Klobuchar along with Representatives Hinson and Pingree offers further details about this initiative.
