Our collective strength— our willingness to be leaders in grassroots advocacy— is the only thing that consistently stands in the way of the people and policies that could devastate our future.
From the President
Buck Wehrbein
WHY WE NEED GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY
I recently had the honor of representing the cattle business and members of NCBA, testifying before Congress, about the many critical issues impacting us as producers. It was an honor to represent each of our members in this capacity, but also a reminder of something far more important, the need to be involved. Being involved, as a member of the cattle industry and in the policy process isn’ t an option, it is a necessity for the survival and future of our family farms and ranches.
NCBA is leading the charge to fight the threats we face as cattle producers. Whether it’ s burdensome regulations, unworkable environmental rules, animal rights activists or countless other threats, NCBA is working tirelessly to protect our interests. However, securing the future so we can pass our farms and ranches onto future generations falls to each of us as individuals to be engaged members of our local, state and national industry organizations. Our collective strength— our willingness to be leaders in grassroots advocacy— is the only thing that consistently stands in the way of the people and policies that could devastate our future.
It’ s no surprise that lawmakers are often disconnected from the everyday struggles cattle producers face. The distance between Washington, D. C., and the heart of rural America is a Grand Canyon-wide rift that results in misunderstanding and mistrust. The only way to combat this is through real, authentic engagement.
Advocacy goes beyond letters and petitions; it involves personal connection through conversations and sharing stories. Lawmakers are influenced by real-world impacts and need to hear directly from cattle producers. That’ s why the opportunity to testify was such a life-changing opportunity for me and for anyone else who has been willing to stand with us in Washington, D. C. While NCBA advocates nationally and testifying is a big part of that, grassroots efforts
Our collective strength— our willingness to be leaders in grassroots advocacy— is the only thing that consistently stands in the way of the people and policies that could devastate our future.
from individual members are crucial. Active participation in policy discussions, attending town halls or contacting officials is essential for effective advocacy.
We’ ve all heard the adage:“ If you’ re not at the table, you’ re on the menu.” This is especially true in Washington, D. C. Cattle producers are probably some of the most authentic people to step foot in political offices and have discussions about policy. That’ s our strength, and we must rely on the power of our collective voice to advocate for our interests. We are the boots on the ground, and only we know what works and what doesn’ t.
I know firsthand how busy life can be— every day is a balancing act of caring for our animals, land and family, all while trying to keep up with a mountain of business obligations, paperwork and regulations. But here’ s the truth— if we don’ t make the time to engage with our policymakers, others will make decisions for us that could endanger our way of life. The challenges facing cattle producers are immense, but we are not powerless. We are strong when we stand together, united by the common cause of defending our industry. The work ahead will be tough but I have no doubt, if we all make the effort to engage, educate and advocate, we will continue to ensure the survival and success of our farms and ranches for generations to come.
Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our association. Your involvement is invaluable, and I truly appreciate your commitment to our shared goals. As we continue to advocate for the cattle business, I encourage you to keep engaging with NCBA and continue exploring opportunities to make a difference at the state level. Your voice and actions inspire others, and together, we can strengthen our efforts to protect and secure the future of the cattle industry for generations to come. I hope our paths cross in the future and, until then, happy trails. www. NCBA. org NATIONAL CATTLEMEN 5