Sarah van Gelder, author of The Revolution Where You Live: Stories from a 12,000 Mile Journey Through a New America and cofounder of YES! Magazine, will headline a pre-convention conference on Fri., Feb. 2, leading up to the 87th annual Wisconsin Farmers Union State Convention at Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells.
The event, titled Groundswell, will explore the new ideas and challenges that are shaping the future of agriculture and rural life. Van Gelder will share stories from her road trip around the United States about communities building power and making change, especially those who are taking on climate change and protecting the environment, building a locally based economy and overcoming racial divides.
The program will also consist of two general sessions: Do-It-Yourself Economic Development and Engaging in Local Government. The first session will highlight business owners, cooperatives, family farmers and others who are working to bring hope back to Main Street, while the second will be a moderated panel of Farmers Union members who have engaged as leaders in their communities. All are invited to join in this empowering discussion about what kind of future we want for our farms and small towns.
The conference will run from noon to 4:30pm and includes lunch. The cost to attend is $35 for Farmers Union members or $65 for nonmembers (includes one-year family membership.) WFU is offering scholarships through local chapters; check with county leadership for availability or contact the state office at 715-723-5561.
Throughout the convention weekend, attendees will join in networking, workshops, and the important work of shaping WFU policy. Visit www.wisconsinfarmersunion.com/convention for more details and to register.
