Join farmers across the state in the Local Food Famer Caucus!
Are you a farmer who is passionate about growing and supporting your local food system? Are you looking to connect with others that share your passion? If you answered yes, then the Local Food Farmer Caucus is right for you!
What is a caucus?
The word “caucus” has Native American origins as the Algonquian word for “counsel.” We would like to think of the Local Food Farmer Caucus as being counselors and advisers, not just to the Alliance, but to each other, because Illinois farmers that are growing food for their own communities know the potential of their local food system as well as their barriers to growth and success.
Why should I join the caucus?
For too long decisions have been made without farmers at the table. This Caucus changes that. We believe that Illinois can feed Illinois, and when we work as a collective, farmer-led voice, we can change mindsets and create a stronger local food movement.
The Local Food Farmer Caucus will help develop a thriving, economically viable and just local food system in Illinois.
You can count on the Alliance’s Local Food Farmer Caucus for opportunities to:
- Meet and network with other like-minded farmers who share your passion for local food
- Shape a local food policy agenda, Sharpen your skills as a leader of the local food movement
- Get the latest insider intel on programs and policies that impact the local food economy
We look to local food farmers in the Caucus to weigh in on our advocacy agenda, drive adoption of sustainable and diversified farming practices, speak out on the need for greater transparency in the food system, raise awareness for local supply chains, and educate decision-makers on issues that impact farmers.
How does the caucus work?
The Local Food Farmer Caucus consists of over 100 farmers from across Illinois and is co-chaired by Christine Johnson of Wild Trillium Farm and Morgan Snedden of Fox at the Fork Farm.
The caucus typically meets at least four times per year, including the Alliance’s annual meeting for all members, to discuss and decide on policy priorities and form campaign teams. These meetings also serve to build community among farmers and their advocates, a critical role to play for very busy farmers spread out across the state.
Campaign teams are smaller groups of caucus members that are built around specific policies that the caucus has decided to prioritize. Members self-select onto these teams and meet separately to strategize and advocate for policies.
How do I join the Local Food Farmer Caucus?
In order to join the Local Food Farmer Caucus, you must become a dues-paying member of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance and then complete the membership form for the caucus. You can do both of those things by clicking this link.
Have more questions?
Contact our local food organizer, Jeff Hake, at jeff@ilstewards.org