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Ableism — A farmer is a person who, regardless of land or business ownership status, stewards the production of food or raw materials (plants, fiber, etc); for community use or consumption; using their knowledge, passion, attention and intent; and as a significant endeavor in their life. Sustainable farmers see their stewardship responsibilities as integrally related to the ecosystems around them.
Ageism — Being explicit in our communications that farm workers who fit the above definition are farmers, including by ensuring our programming is as relevant to farm workers as to farm owners/lessees.
Agroforestry — Being clear and intentional about the target audience/participants in our descriptions of our programs, events, etc., so that members can select into the programs that most benefit them and being intentional to create programming to benefit all farmers.
Anti-oppression — Paying particular attention to and offering extra support around the farmer’s most vulnerable life phases: Beginning, Staying, Transitioning. Supporting transitioning farmers to be mentors to the next generation, who may or may not be related to the farmer, and paying particular attention to land access issues impacting BIPOC farmers.
Anti-racism — Being conveners with other communities to gain support for this vision. Looking for opportunities to influence/craft policy, regulations and law that support and improve conditions and opportunities for farmers.
