I’m guessing that the word lobbyist may have a negative connotation to a lot of people. I can certainly understand how this association evolved over time, but lobbyists do serve a useful purpose in our government. And, for those involved in agriculture, we should be thankful that there are people looking out for our best interests in Richmond. Recently, VALOR Class III had the opportunity to meet with representatives from the Virginia Farm Bureau and attend the Virginia Agribusiness Council’s Annual Legislative Appreciation Banquet. These two organizations serve as a unified voice for Virginia agriculture whenever issues affecting agriculture and forestry are being debated and resolved.
However, this doesn’t mean that we can sit back and do nothing! Our legislators respect the Virginia Farm Bureau and the Agribusiness Council, but they really want to hear from their constituents. Yes, that means you. So, get out there and get involved with these or other organizations of your choice so that your voice can be heard when legislation that affects you is being debated.
“Let us never forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us. The ultimate rulers of our democracy are not a President and senators and congressmen and government officials, but the voters of this country.”
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Thank you to all our gracious hosts in Richmond for giving us your time and your thoughts during this seminar. Special thanks to Virginia Farm Bureau and the Virginia Agribusiness Council for your legislative efforts to protect agriculture in Virginia.
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