Called by the Earth: Women in Sustainable Farming

Susan D. Blum

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DOI: 10.2190/WR.16.3-4.d

Abstract

When people think of farmers, they usually think of men. Iconic images of farming might include rough, burly guys using heavy equipment. But nowadays, more women have become farmers, especially in contexts of sustainable food. Using the life stories of three such women, I show how they came to this work and what it means. It is much more of a calling than a conventional form of work, precipitated by crises, illuminated by epiphanies, and benefiting from skills accumulated in these women's previous work life. Their work may be summed up as redemptive.

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