US President Donald J Trump issued a proclamation declaring March 24, 2020 as National Agriculture Day, highlighting the critical and foundational nature of farmers in the country’s economy and the American way of life.
In his proclamation, he stated, “As our nation continues to face the unique challenges posed by the Coronavirus pandemic, we pay tribute to the unbeatable strength of America’s agricultural producers as they once again answer the call to feed our country and the world. On this National Agriculture Day, and now more than ever, we salute and honour the men and women who contribute daily to our national prosperity.”
Smithfield Foods joined the White House in rising up to salute the American food heroes, including the 40,000 Smithfield employees on its farms and in its facilities, thousands of family farmers and other partners in the supply chain who feed millions of people in the United States and around the world every day.
The president and chief executive officer Kenneth M Sullivan recently highlighted the critical and essential nature of agriculture and food workers in the US’ ongoing response to COVID-19, noting that it was expressly because of the dedication of agriculture and food workers that they continue to have food on tables across America.
“US agriculture and food workers are the lifeblood of our communities and our economy, today more than ever,” Sullivan stated, adding, “I applaud President Trump for honouring and celebrating the vital role these hardworking men and women are playing during this crucial time. We all owe them a great debt of gratitude.”