Why I Joined the National Farmers Union – Ontario

By Julie Fleischauer
Golden Acres Farm
I joined the National Farmers Union-Ontario because out of all the important issues facing our farming communities at this time there were a few that finally hit home for me. When I decided that I wanted to do more than sit back and worry; there was the NFU in Ontario and across Canada, already organizing protests and handing out petitions and flyers. The organizers were fully cognizant of the problem, fully aware before there was a problem, and in full scale pursuit of a solution more detailed and big-picture than I had originally thought the issue merited.
It’s easy to forget that we have a say in how our laws and by-laws are to be written. And, it is hard to translate how a flimsy piece of paper will affect your way of life. In many ways, the NFU is my voice, before I even know that I need to be heard. The NFU organization keeps us all included in a conversation worthy of debate. As people, we argue because our words mean something. We are angered when our rights are violated. However, we can only take action when we are aware that a line has been crossed.
I am just one small farmer. Independence is hugely important to me. I live my livelihood by being unique, by striving to be the best in my niche. I have my own views of the world, and my life-long goal is to take less for granted and to pursue everything with an open mind. By being a member, in whatever way I wish to contribute, large or small, I am grateful to the NFU-O for helping me to take part in our conversation.