The U.S. Senate passed a resolution celebrating the designation of 2026 as ‘International Year of the Woman Farmer.’ U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, introduced the resolution in the Senate. U.S. Reps. Ashley Hinson (R-IA2) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME1) introduced companion legislation in the House.
“Every day, women across America work to feed, fuel, and clothe our world – and they should receive credit for incredibly demanding jobs. That’s why I am proud to partner with Senator Klobuchar in introducing this resolution to ensure that female ag producers receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work,” Fischer said.
“We can’t have a strong rural economy without the contributions of the women farmers working every day to feed and fuel the world. By recognizing 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, we are celebrating the role of women in agriculture, encouraging women and girls to pursue careers in agriculture, and ensuring that women in agriculture have a seat at the table and supporting them once they’re there,” Klobuchar said.
“Agriculture is more than just the backbone of our economy—it is a way of life. Women have always been at the center of that story. Nearly one-third of farmers in my district are women, leading operations, balancing the books, and strengthening our rural communities, often while raising families. I’m proud to lead a resolution making 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer because it’s long past time we recognize the vital role women play in feeding, fueling, and sustaining America,” Hinson said.
“As a longtime farmer, I know both the opportunities and the challenges that women in agriculture face. I’m proud to come from the state of Maine, where more than 43 percent of farm operators are women. Designating 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer gives us a platform to highlight women’s leadership and create momentum that supports the next generation. This recognition is long overdue. Women have always been at the heart of agriculture although they have not always received equal support or visibility. It’s critical that we work together to remove barriers and build career pathways for women who want to farm, innovate, and lead,” Pingree said.