Proclamation doesn’t change livestock industry’s importance

The past year has been a very challenging one for our state and the world. We’ve had to reinvent the way we do things in order to save as many lives as possible and get out of the crisis that has been brought on by the pandemic.

As livestock producers, you face challenges few others face: long, frigid nights caring for your animals, tough commodity prices, drought and a true mental health crisis invading our rural communities.

I have spoken with many of you who expressed concern with the proclamation that designated March 20 as MeatOut day. I would like to clarify that this proclamation does not create a new state holiday, despite certain headlines, and that proclamations are non-binding. Also, this is not a new proclamation — former Gov. John Hickenlooper made a similar proclamation in 2011.

The governor’s office processes hundreds of these requests by advocacy groups representing the wide spectrum of opinions that make up our great state. But still, you matter, your voice matters, and I am listening.

Late March is a time when agriculture is elevated in Colorado. Take the annual Ag Day celebration. This is a time when we raise the voice of agriculture and invite Coloradans to taste, learn and get connected to Colorado agriculture. And that means a time to connect with Colorado’s livestock producers and beef industry — the largest industry in Colorado agriculture.

Since I began my time as commissioner, I have been listening when you tell me what keeps you up at night. Questions of whether your kids will be able to make a living in agriculture, how you will manage through another year of drought, and what the changing economy will mean for your family and community. These are just some of the places where I am fighting for you every day.

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