2025 AAW Fly In: Reflections

Illinois Agri-Women had three members attend the 2025 American Agri-Women Fly-In that occurred in June. American Agri-Women had a power-packed agenda from Sunday through Tuesday for the annual Fly-In. Members travelled to Washington D.C. for several days fo ag-vocacy at government agencies, embassies, and on capital hill. See below for some insights from this event.

On Sunday, members had the chance to discuss issues with Mark Morano of ClimateDepot and constitutional rights with Jonathan Alexandre of Liberty Counsel as well as proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act and other policies with legal counsel of the Dept. of Interior.

Monday morning started with the Symposium (New Era in Public Land Management: Healthy Forests, Grazing, and Water Resources)  that offered first-hand experience and advice for creating policies that work for people, rural communities, and the environment.  Over lunch, they learned a little about priorities of the American Petroleum Institute and then on to USEPA to share our concerns on issues that varied from pesticide labeling and the vulnerable species strategy to waters of the U.S.  The afternoon brought a trip to the Congo Embassy to learn about their interest in boosting ag. trade and training in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in a meeting with their embassy diplomats.

Tuesday morning was productive with conversations about preventing livestock diseases, especially avian influenza and its control with USDA’s Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service; and they discussed the future of rural broadband/connectivity and utilities with the Rural Utility Service. They had a unique opportunity for a historic look at USDA and an excellent conversation on trade priorities and the role the Foreign Agriculture Service plays in informing and supporting the work of the U.S. Trade Representative.  Following their time at USDA, they visited Capitol Hill for visits with Illinois congressional and senate offices. 

Heather Hampton+Knodle reported here key takeaways:

• the next 12 months are the time  for Congress to act to codify some much needed changes to key statutes including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Endangered Species Act (ESA).  
• AW priorities included highlighting the need for stable and increasing trade opportunities, the need for tax certainty through a number of provisions, and the need for a Farm Bill instead of bailouts.
• The two primary benefits of participating in Fly-In: 1) meeting key thought leaders and decision makers in person and 2) learning from and fellowship with fellow Agri-Women from around the country.  This coming from a person who has attended almost every Fly-In since 1999.

The 2025 American Agri-Women Fly-In wasn’t my first, but I know it won’t be my last. I have a voice and a purpose—and I’ll keep showing up for those who can’t. The energy in our nation’s capital is electric—and being there charged us even more. We weren’t just visitors—we were voices. Voices speaking directly to decision-makers. Voices of Rural America. Voices of the land, the livestock, and the legacy.

But more than that—we were stories. Stories of personal loss and personal growth. Stories with dirt under the nails—ours, our families’, our neighbors’. Stories of fire and flood, of friction and perseverance. Of shortage—of water, of resources, of support—but never of grit.

We stood tall—for the farmers and ranchers whose hands have built not just their livelihoods, but the backbone of this country. For everyone who makes up the heart of the agricultural industry. Even when their work goes unseen… their impact never should. And let me tell you—we showed up ready to speak out.

Throughout the trip, we had the incredible opportunity to meet with key federal agencies and organizations that directly impact agriculture. We sat down with leaders at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), USDA, and the American Petroleum Institute, diving into real conversations about energy, sustainability, rural broadband, and the policy issues shaping our communities. We even had a fascinating stop at the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where we discussed agriculture on a global scale—proof that our voices reach farther than we think.

Meeting face-to-face with lawmakers and decision-makers brought advocacy to life. We talked policy. Yes, we shared our personal stories—and the stories of our neighbors. We made sure the faces behind those who feed, fuel, and clothe the world were not only seen but heard. It wasn’t about politics. It was about people. Real people who rise before the sun, work through storms, and keep America running.

One of the most unforgettable moments? A private nighttime Capitol tour, personally led by Congressman Derrick Van Orden. Walking through those historic halls after hours, hearing stories from someone who walks them daily—it was humbling, awe-inspiring, and deeply moving. That night wasn’t just about monuments; it was about memory, meaning, and mission.

But beyond the meetings and the marble, something deeper happened.

We connected – over coffee—tea—and maybe an adult beverage or two. In late-night chats and honest conversations. In shared reflections about where we’ve been and where we’re headed. This wasn’t just professional development. It was personal empowerment.

I’ve always known I had a voice. But this experience helped me use it with more clarity, more purpose, and more conviction. I walked into those rooms confident—but I walked out changed. Because advocacy isn’t just about having a seat at the table. It’s about knowing who you are when you sit down.

This journey reminded me that growth doesn’t come with an age limit or a job title. Whether you’re just starting out or decades into your ag journey—whether you call yourself “just a farm wife,” a FarmHer, a financial officer, a salesperson, etc., or you’re retired and watching the seeds you’ve planted bloom—you belong. Your voice matters. And when we show up—together—we create a real, lasting change.

We are AgricultuHER. We are a voice. We are United!

Most of all, I was reminded of the power of women in agriculture. We are not just participants—we are leaders, mentors, movers, and trailblazers. When we link arms and raise our voices, there’s no limit to what we can do.

So, here’s to the women who showed up in D.C. in years past, those who stood tall in 2025, and those still to come. Here’s to muddy boots, bold beliefs, and keeping the conversation going—because advocacy doesn’t end when the trip does.

“Leadership is a path you walk, not a place you reach—a winding road that shapes you with every step. And this chapter? It left footprints on my heart and settled deep in the dust on my boots, echoing with me always.”
— Vikkie Becker

Throughout the conference, we heard from a variety of expert speakers and gained valuable insights into the evolving landscape of agricultural policy and land stewardship. One of the highlights for me was the USDA Roundtable and our Congressional appointments. These sessions offered an incredible opportunity to engage directly with policymakers—bringing our voices, priorities, and recommendations to the forefront. 

I particularly appreciated the USDA Roundtable discussion on trade policy, as it closely aligns with my professional interests. It was both informative and inspiring to hear how trade decisions impact our agricultural sectors and rural communities. 

What stood out most, however, was the supportive and collaborative spirit of the Agri-Women community. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned participant, you’re never alone. The network is strong, uplifting, and action-oriented. You learn by doing—and you’re surrounded by people who are ready to guide and support you every step of the way. 

For those who have not yet attended, I strongly encourage you to begin planning for next year. 

This is more than a conference—it’s a powerful experience that equips you to lead, influence, and advocate for the future of agriculture and our communities.