For every generation, America’s farmers, ranchers, and farm workers have fed and energized our nation and promoted the strength and health of our people, our communities, and our economies. Since 1944, we have celebrated these critical workers during National Farm Safety and Health Week – a time for all of us to reassign ourselves to promoting the safety and wellbeing of all hardworking farm and ranch workers.
The contributions of farmers, ranchers and farm workers have always been important, but they may never have been more evident than they were during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has taken an incalculable toll on our nation’s farms and farming communities, with high rates of infection and disease affecting almost every facet of our agricultural system. Aside from the unique challenges of the pandemic, the agriculture sector has always been both physically and mentally demanding and remains one of the most dangerous industries in America.
Despite these challenges, our dedicated farmers, ranchers and farm workers have continued to work around the clock, risking their lives and those of their loved ones to ensure families across the country have food on the table. Their sacrifices are commendable, but they shouldn’t have to risk injury, illness, or death to get their job done. Our nation has a duty to protect farm workers and to promote safety education for peasants and peasant families. We must continue to reduce the risks of accidents, injuries and deaths – including those on country roads with tractors and other machinery – and the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to fertilizers and chemicals. We must continue to vaccinate Americans so our brave farmers, ranchers and farm workers can go to work free from the deadly threat of COVID-19.
American farm workers are the best in the world and have always faced the challenges of the job head on. Their success is our nation’s success, and we must support them and their well-being as they feed the world, strengthen their local communities, and contribute to the prosperity and opportunities of rural America and beyond. My administration is committed to ensuring that every farmer, rancher and farm worker can work in a safe and healthy environment. By having their backs on them, our nation will continue to lead the world in agricultural production and innovation, ensuring our food supplies are secure and our economy is strong.
THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the powers conferred on me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, hereby declare September 19 through September 25, 2021, to be National Farm Safety and Health Week . I call on the people of the United States, including American farmers and ranchers and agriculture-related institutions, organizations and corporations, to reaffirm their commitment to farm safety and health. I also urge all Americans to recognize the historic and continuing contributions of our agricultural sector and to express our appreciation and gratitude to our farmers and ranchers for their vital contributions and tireless service to our nation.
IN WITNESS WHICH I lay on my hand on September 17th, the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-one and the independence of the United States of America on the two hundred and forty-sixth.
JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
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