A Letter to the Editor (LTE) is a brief piece of writing sent to a journal/newspaper’s editor. An LTE is a great advocacy tool that can reach larger audiences, and create an impression of widespread support or opposition to an issue. The editorial section is one of the most widely read segments of newspapers-think of it as similar to a community board. See our submitted LTEs below related to the 2023 Farm Bill.
Dear Editor and Iowa Citizens,
Lawmakers in our nation’s capital have been charged with the huge task of crafting the 2023 Farm Bill. Much of what they choose to include or not include will affect not only farmers and their livelihood, but also the food assistance programs that so many families rely on. In fact, calling it a Farm Bill seriously understates the breadth of the Bill. It would more accurately be called the Food and Land Bill since 76% of the current Bill relates to nutrition. The remaining 24% addresses issues related to land, and only part of that is directly related to Farming.
I care about this Bill because I care about every person’s ability to access nutritious food that has been produced in ways that do not harm the environment. I strongly believe that the national government should have more influence over the way food assistance is distributed to individuals through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Iowa has been particularly restrictive with processes for applying and requalifying for SNAP and uses forms that are cumbersome and unjust. Lawmakers envision some kind of widespread black market food underground that is robbing the government. The reality is that people are going hungry and no one is getting rich off food assistance. I implore the national legislators to generously fund SNAP and include guidelines that ensure that all of that assistance reaches those in need. Our country has more than enough to feed all the people who call it home.
Rev. Heather Wachendorf
Des Moines, IA
Congress must pass a faithful and equitable 2023 Farm Bill that will promote a sustainable food system for our communities. As an urban farmer who is intimately tied to my faith, I know changes must be made to our current system to truly provide more opportunities for all Iowans to thrive. The Farm Bill has the unique opportunity to make drastic change over the next 5 years-our neighbors and communities deserve access to fresh, healthy, and local food.
Increasing funds and access to USDA and food nutrition programs that will help promote and grow opportunities for entrepreneurs and careers in food and agriculture is a must. Increased support for programs such as farmers markets, fruit and vegetable producers, meat processing facilities, heirloom grain processing, and food nutrition programs such as SNAP are essential.
Legislation that makes it easier to support locally grown, locally raised, and locally caught food-along with increased support in our food distribution system-is necessary to build stronger connections between farmers and communities. The Farm Bill is a major investment in our farmers, our food system, and our communities. As stewards of the Earth, we need to ensure that it supports and prioritizes the well-being of our communities. Fresh, healthy food is vital for growth and protection of the mind, body, and spirit-everyone deserves these basic resources and needs.
MJ Noethe
Capitol Hill, Des Moines