Finding "The Voice" of Agriculture

     Many of you may have heard of NBC's singing competition show, "The Voice".  On this show, contestants begin with a blind audition where the coaches cannot see the competitor until they have chosen them for their team.  These coaches are making their decision based solely on the person's tone without having any idea what they look like.  What would happen if the competition worked the opposite way and the coaches had to choose their team strictly on looks without ever hearing them sing, or even speak? 

                                                                 
     Recently, The New York Times announced a nationwide contest regarding the ethical issues surrounding meat consumption.  The contest consists of writing an an essay of 600 words or less that clearly states why it is ethical to eat meat that will be judged by a panel of five men who themselves question or condemn the eating of meat.
    What a great opportunity for the farmer/rancher, feed yard owner, and harvesting plant worker to find their voice!  They have been quiet for too long when the truth needs to be heard.  Folks want to know what happens to their food from the pasture to the plate.  The guy that sits in his office and punches in the latest information on meat and grain markets is not the man that I want to hear from.  I want to hear from the source.
     For years the non-meat eating world has been declaring their views about what they feel is the morally unacceptable act of meat consumption.  They have been heard loudly and clearly by many who have picked up the ball and ran with it without knowing the facts from both sides of this coin.
     Now, don't get me wrong, I am not devaluing those folks who choose not to eat meat.  I think it is wonderful that we have a choice in our great nation what we put in our bodies.  What I am saying is that as part of the circle of life, those that are a part of animal agriculture need to find their voice.  And even more importantly, they also need to listen to and understand what people want from the people who are raising their food.  Farmers and ranchers need to be able to answer people's questions with truth and accuracy.  Knowledge gives consumers peace of mind regarding the safety and ethics of eating meat. 

Farmers, find your voice!