MFU Youth Delegate Says NFU Convention a Great Experience

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 8, 2016

MFU Members & Delegates Attend National Farmers Union Convention

          Youth Delegate Talks About Experience

Minneapolis, MN- The National Farmers Union kicked off their annual convention in Minneapolis Saturday night with an opening banquet. “The NFU convention is an important event for our members and the organization as a whole. Not only do attendees get to learn and collaborate through breakout sessions, thoughtful panel discussions and industry tours, but the annual convention sets the stage for NFU’s policies and priorities in the year ahead,” said NFU President Roger Johnson.

In addition, convention attendees heard opening remarks from Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton (D), U.S. Senators Al Franken (D-Minn.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and U.S. Representative Tom Emmer (R-Minn.).

Over one dozen delegates, members and staff are attending the convention which runs through Tuesday finishing with policy consideration and adoption

MFU youth delegate, Erik Kelly, says the convention has been very eye opening. “I am so grateful for this opportunity,” said Kelly. “Kelly has been involved with MFU as a youth leader and was recognized for his contribution at MFU’ convention in October as a recipient of the Torchbearer award.  That award is given for exceptional youth leadership in the organization. One policy issue of particular interest to Kelly is the topic of GMO Labeling. “It will be interesting to see what comes of the discussion. It is a very interesting issue.”

The role of a convention delegate is to vote on national policy on behalf of MFU membership. National policy can then serve as guidance for when MFU sets its policy at the state level at the annual convention set for Oct. 21-22 in Great Falls.

Among other highlights of the convention Monday was the speech by retired U.S. Army General Wesley Clark. “You’re not just farmers. You’re in the national security business, and we need you out there on the front lines protecting America’s economic future.”

The convention will conclude this afternoon after policy consideration and adoption is finished.

-30-