Farm Aid Statement On Family Farmers And The World Trade Organization Ministerial

Farm Aid
Thursday, 2 December 1999

Seattle, Washington December 2, 1999 - Issued by Farm Aid Executive Director Carolyn Mugar

Farm Aid stands with family farmers across the United States and the world in their struggle for economic justice in the face of multi-national corporations and national governments whose practices and policies are forcing farmers off their land. We also stand with consumers who have made it clear that they too support fair trade policies benefiting family farmers and serving to establish an equitable and sustainable food system for all.

As the World Trade Organization gathers to address trade issues, family farmers renew their call for fair trade, not free trade.

Fair trade means trade that guarantees the security, sustainability and safety of local food systems.

Fair trade means trade that gives family farmers a fair price guaranteed to cover the cost of production.

Fair trade means trade that ensures family farmers will survive to play a major role in the food production system of the future.

Family farmers today are calling on the World Trade Organization to reverse the policies that everyday are driving more and more farmers off their land. They call, as well, for action to repair the damage already done.

As an organization that works with family farmers and consumers to create and maintain a local food system and a healthful food supply, Farm Aid joins our family farmers in their appeal.

Since 1985, Farm Aid has granted $14.5 million to more than 100 farm organizations, churches, and service agencies in 44 states. Nearly one-half of Farm Aid grants are used for direct services, including food and emergency aid, legal assistance and hotlines. The remainder of Farm Aid funds are distributed as program grants to promote outreach, education and development of long-term solutions to the chronic farm crisis.

For more information, or to contact Farm Aid, see their website at: www.farmaid.org