WHEREAS, The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer to raise awareness of the vital role women play in agrifood systems and global food security; and

WHEREAS, Women constitute a significant share of the global agricultural workforce and contribute across the entire agrifood value chain, including production, processing, distribution, and trade; and

WHEREAS, Women farmers play a critical role in ensuring the food security, nutrition, poverty reduction, and economic stability of rural households and communities; and

WHEREAS, Despite their contributions, women in agriculture face persistent structural barriers, including limited access to land, financing, technology, education, and decisionmaking opportunities; and

WHEREAS, In the United States, women contribute significantly to agricultural production, agribusiness, research, and leadership; and

WHEREAS, In the State of California, the largest agricultural producer in the United States, women are a driving force in the agricultural economy and food system; and

WHEREAS, California is home to more than 45,000 women agricultural producers, representing nearly 38 percent of all producers in the state; and

WHEREAS, Women are involved in operating approximately 63 percent of farms in California, a higher share than in any other major agricultural state; and

WHEREAS, The number of women farmers in California has increased by approximately 13 percent over the past decade, reflecting growing leadership, ownership, and participation in agriculture; and

WHEREAS, Women in California agriculture contribute not only to farming and ranching, but also to innovation, sustainability, processing, distribution, marketing, and retail across the food supply chain; and

WHEREAS, Women-led farms are often at the forefront of sustainable practices, including soil health, water conservation, and climate-resilient agriculture; and

WHEREAS, The International Year of the Woman Farmer provides an opportunity to promote gender equality, empower women, and encourage policy reforms and investments that address disparities in agriculture; and

WHEREAS, The observance calls upon governments, international organizations, civil society, private sector actors, and individuals to increase awareness and take action in support of women farmers; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby proclaims 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer and recognizes the critical role of women in agriculture; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

ACR 193: International Year of the Woman Farmer.

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