1986-4 Farm Crisis Resolution

86-D (4) Farm Crisis Resolution

WHEREAS all people are served by farming, and

WHEREAS many member of LSM-USA and their families are directly and indirectly involved in farming, and

WHEREAS the economic problems of the American farmer have increased due to foreign subsidies, low domestic prices, and the ineffective application of government support, and

WHEREAS there is a continuing depression in the farm community that is affecting non-agricultural sectors in such situations as farm foreclosures and bank closings, and

WHEREAS the farm depression is causing mental as well as emotional problems, including suicide, among people in the farm communities , and

WHEREAS organizations such as Farm Aid are in existence to aid the farm crisis ,

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT LSM-USA and its affiliated groups educate themselves on the issue of the farm crisis and to take action bys assisting the groups in existence which are already aiding farmers .

This action may include the following :

1 . LSM-USA members writing letters to legislators to encourage :

a. developing world trade .

b. researching new uses for agricultural products .

c. effectively and justly administering current farm-support programs .

d. gradually decreasing government aid as the need decreases so the farmers may become independent of it .

e. providing counseling and retraining for those who must cease farming .

2 . LSM local and regional organizing and supporting fundraising projects . The chapter or region will determine-which Lutheran synod or district the proceeds will be donated to with the funds being designated for support of the farmers : ,

3 . LSM-USA members will actively support through prayer all those affected by the farm crisis and work optimistically toward a resolution .

Submitted by Jennifer Miller - University of Northern Iowa - an d

Michael Pagni - University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse .