Mitchell signs on as farmer labor organizer with WFU

Developing grassroots power in support of farmer-labor solidarity, will be the focus of a newly created position within the Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU). With that in mind, the family farm organization has announced the hire of Charlie Mitchell as their farmer labor organizer.

Mitchell’s background is rooted in food and agriculture communities, and in organizations focused on policy, activism, and economic and environmental change. His writings have appeared in Civil Eats, The Counter, and others, including a mention in The Washington Post.

He has been a dedicated board member and non-profit leader, working on issues such as antitrust in agriculture and revitalizing rural economies. In college, Mitchell led a non-profit grocery access program in Addison County, Vt., a diverse agricultural region, and served on the board of a regional food organization.

His more recent research and reporting projects, mostly based in Des Moines, Iowa, have been steeped in the history and daily struggles of rural people, and the agricultural policy that shaped the country.

“I couldn’t be more excited to work with WFU reviving an old legacy of lasting, dedicated relationships of solidarity across progressive Wisconsin,” Mitchell said. “We will win a fair democracy and economy, along with racial and environmental justice – but only if we work together.”

“We are thrilled to be able to revitalize and build farmer labor partnerships, so that working people’s common concerns are elevated this election season,” said WFU executive director Julie Keown-Bomar. “Charlie demonstrates an aptitude for organizing people in the food system and brings grassroots experience to the table. He is an excellent writer, listener and researcher, who understands the political and economic issues our members prioritize.”

Then WFU, a member-driven organization, is committed to enhancing the quality of life for family farmers, rural communities and all people, through educational opportunities, cooperative endeavors and civic engagement.

Mitchell began his duties with the WFU July 20. He can be reached at cmitchell@wisconsinfarmersunion.com.